Challenges facing nurses: An applied study on workers at Al-Nuzhah Health Center in Riyadh

Abstract

Nurses are the backbone of the health system and play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of healthcare provided to patients. This study aims to explore the challenges facing nurses in Saudi Arabia, in the context of the country’s health transformations under Saudi Vision 2030. A descriptive quantitative design (a cross-sectional study) was used to collect data from 114 nurses working at Al-Nuzhah Health Center in Riyadh during the period from October 2024 to November 2024. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The results showed that the greatest administrative challenges were related to administrative duality and conflict between physicians’ and patients’ expectations, while economic challenges focused on low salaries and their incompatibility with the nature of the work. Regarding social challenges, the study showed that poor English language skills and negative societal perceptions of nurses were a major concern for participants. The results also showed that psychological stress was among the most prominent psychological challenges. These findings provide evidence of the urgent need to improve the work environment for nurses in Saudi Arabia by developing administrative policies, enhancing career advancement opportunities, providing psychological support, and improving financial conditions. Responding to these challenges will have a positive impact on raising the level of healthcare and achieving the goals of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.