Article Work values and job satisfaction: A qualitative study of Iranian nurses

This study aimed to describe the effect of nursing profession work-related values on job satisfaction among a sample of Iranian nurses. We used in-depth interviews with 30 nurses who worked in university-affiliated and public hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The results of thematic analysis of interviews are reported in four themes to present the participants ’ articulations in linking their work-related values to job satisfaction. The themes consist of values that ‘‘encourage tolerance,’ ’ ‘‘enhance inner harmony,’ ’ ‘‘reflect traditional commit-ment,’ ’ ‘‘enhance unity,’ ’ and are ‘‘centered around altruism and spiritual values.’ ’ Themost satisfied participants considered nursing a divine profession and a tool by which they could gain spiritual pleasure and satisfaction. Our findings highlight the potential role of nursing work-related values in reducing dissatisfaction with one’s job. For the nursing profession, this may have implications in reducing job instability and turnover