Effects of structural empowerment and professional governance on autonomy and job satisfaction of the Korean nurses

Aim: To investigate the relationships among structural empowerment, professional governance, autonomy and job satisfaction in the Korean nurses and to provide a more in-depth explanation of the nature of professional governance as a process. Background: Professional governance in nursing is a key component in the Magnet Recognition Program. However, little is known about professional governance in the Korean nursing. Methods: A sequential, explanatory, mixed-method study with the Korean nurses (n = 208). Results: The quantitative findings showed that decision-making among the Korean nurses fell on a continuum of professional governance directed by managers. The mediating effects of professional governance on the relationships between structural empowerment and autonomy and between structural empowerment and job satisfaction were significant. The qualitative findings described the inhibitors and facilitators of professional governance. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the significance of professional governance in providing nurses with more control over nursing practice and patient care and in encouraging nurses’ involvement in organizational decision-making. Implications for Nursing Management: Health care organizations should establish internal policies that give nurses the power to voice their opinions on inpatient care, encourage unit managers to create a positive nursing work environment through support and recognition and have nurses set council activity goals based on their needs.