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RESEARCH ARTICLE 2

The Compatibility between Study and Full-Time Work for Nurses in Saudi Arabia: A 3

Comprehensive Evaluation 4
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Abstract: 7

Aim: 8

This study aims to explore the compatibility between study and full-time work for nurses 9
in Saudi Arabia, examining the challenges and opportunities faced by the nursing 10
workforce in balancing educational pursuits with professional responsibilities. 11

Design: 12

Employing a mixed-methods research design, this study incorporates both qualitative and 13
quantitative methodologies. Surveys and interviews were conducted among 100 nursing 14
participants, providing a comprehensive understanding of the study-work dynamics. 15

Results: 16

Demographic analysis reveals a diverse nursing population, predominantly female, 17

married, and holding a bachelor's degree. The impact of work on nurses' lives is explored, 18
with significant influences on family relationships, time availability, and social 19
engagement. Suggestions for improvement include organizational support through 20
reduced working hours and study leave allowances. The implications for nursing practice 21
emphasize the need for flexible work arrangements, time management training, 22
mentorship programs, and tailored support for parental responsibilities. Overall, the 23
study provides actionable insights to enhance study-work compatibility, contributing to 24
the professional development and well-being of nurses in Saudi Arabia. 25

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1. | INTRODUCTION 30

Saudi Arabia has witnessed significant advancements in its healthcare sector, with nursing playing a pivotal role 31
in providing quality patient care. The Kingdom has a robust healthcare infrastructure, and the demand for 32
skilled nurses continues to rise due to population growth and increased healthcare needs. The nursing 33
profession in Saudi Arabia has evolved over the years, aligning itself with international standards and best 34
practices. With the growing complexity of healthcare services, nurses are expected to continuously upgrade 35
their skills and knowledge to meet the demands of modern healthcare. 36

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2. | BACKGROUND 38

In recent years, the healthcare sector in Saudi Arabia has experienced rapid growth and transformation. With 39
this growth, the role of nurses has become increasingly crucial in providing quality healthcare services to the 40
population. Simultaneously, the emphasis on continuous professional development has gained prominence, 41
urging nurses to pursue further education and training to enhance their skills and knowledge. However, the 42
pursuit of higher education often clashes with the demanding nature of full-time nursing jobs. This conflict 43
raises important questions about the compatibility between study and full-time work for nurses in Saudi Arabia. 44

Simultaneously, the importance of education as a catalyst for professional growth and improved patient 45
outcomes has been widely acknowledged. Many nurses aspire to pursue further education, such as advanced 46
degrees or specialized certifications, to enhance their skills, expand their knowledge base, and stay abreast of the 47
latest developments in the field. However, the path to higher education is often obstructed by the demanding 48
and unpredictable nature of nursing jobs, which involve long working hours, rotating shifts, and high levels of 49
responsibility. 50

Nurses in Saudi Arabia, like their counterparts worldwide, face the dilemma of balancing their aspirations for 51
further education with the practicalities of full-time employment. Pursuing higher education while working 52
requires meticulous planning, exceptional time management skills, and a supportive environment. 53
Understanding the unique challenges faced by nurses in Saudi Arabia in this regard is essential for ensuring 54
their professional development and, subsequently, the overall quality of healthcare services in the country. 55

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Significance of the Study 57

Understanding the dynamics of combining work and education is essential not only for the well-being of nurses 58
but also for the overall healthcare system. The ability of nurses to balance their professional commitments and 59
educational aspirations directly impacts the quality of patient care, professional satisfaction, and the overall 60
effectiveness of the healthcare workforce. By delving into this topic, this research aims to shed light on the 61
challenges faced by nurses, identify the factors influencing their decisions, and explore the existing support 62
systems. The findings of this study can inform healthcare policies and organizational strategies to create a 63
conducive environment for nurses aiming to pursue further education while maintaining their full-time 64
employment. 65

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Research Problem (Problem Statement) 67

The compatibility between study and full-time work for nurses in Saudi Arabia poses a significant challenge in 68
the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape. Despite the increasing importance of continuous education for 69
professional development, nurses often struggle to balance their rigorous work schedules with academic 70
pursuits. The lack of harmony between these commitments can lead to burnout, hinder career advancement, 71
and affect the overall quality of healthcare services provided. 72

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Objectives of research : 74

General Objectives : 75

The study aims to To know the extent the balance between study and full-time work for nurses in the Kingdom 76
of Saudi Arabia 77

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Primary objective : 79

1. To assess The extent to which study and work affect life 80

2. To evaluate the extent study and full-time work affect your family and social life 81

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Research Questions: 83

1. Is there an impact of studying and working full time on your family life? 84

2. Is there an impact of studying and working full time on your social life? 85

3. Is there a balance in time between study and full-time work? 86

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Hypotheses 88

1. Nurses with manageable workloads are more likely to find compatible time for studying, leading to a positive 89
correlation between workload balance and successful study-work integration. 90

2. Nurses demonstrating effective time management skills are more likely to efficiently balance study and full- 91
time work, indicating a positive relationship between time management abilities and study-work 92
compatibility. 93

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3. | Literature Review 96

Role of Nurses in Saudi Arabia: 97

Nurses in Saudi Arabia serve as the backbone of the healthcare system, providing essential medical care, 98
promoting health education, and ensuring the overall well-being of patients. With the country's population on 99
the rise and an increasing burden of chronic diseases, nurses are faced with diverse and challenging patient 100
cases. Their roles have expanded to include not only direct patient care but also leadership, research, and 101
education within healthcare institutions. Understanding the evolving responsibilities of nurses is crucial in 102
recognizing the need for continuous education to meet the changing demands of the profession. 103

Challenges Faced by Nurses in Balancing Work and Education: 104

Nurses encounter multifaceted challenges when trying to balance their full-time jobs with educational pursuits. 105
One of the primary challenges is time management. Juggling long working hours, irregular shifts, and academic 106
responsibilities requires meticulous planning and dedication. Moreover, nurses often face fatigue due to the 107
demanding nature of their jobs, making it challenging to focus on studying after a strenuous day at work. 108
Financial constraints also pose a significant hurdle, as pursuing higher education often comes with tuition fees 109
and additional expenses, which can strain their already tight budgets. Additionally, the lack of flexibility in 110
work schedules and inadequate institutional support further exacerbates the challenges faced by nurses in their 111
pursuit of further education. 112

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Benefits of Pursuing Further Education for Nurses: 114

Despite the challenges, pursuing further education offers numerous benefits to nurses and the healthcare system 115
as a whole. Advanced education equips nurses with specialized skills and in-depth knowledge, enabling them 116
to provide high-quality patient care and contribute significantly to disease management and prevention. Further 117
education opens doors to diverse career opportunities, such as nursing research, teaching, and specialized 118
clinical practice. Moreover, educated nurses are essential for implementing evidence-based practices, enhancing 119
patient safety, and improving healthcare outcomes. Continuous learning also fosters critical thinking, problem- 120
solving abilities, and leadership skills, which are invaluable assets in the ever-changing healthcare landscape. 121

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Support Systems and Policies in Saudi Arabia: 123

Saudi Arabia has made significant strides in recognizing the importance of supporting nurses in their 124
educational pursuits. Various scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs are available to assist nurses in 125
covering tuition fees and related expenses. Additionally, some healthcare institutions offer flexible work 126
arrangements, allowing nurses to balance their work and study schedules effectively. Educational institutions 127
and hospitals collaborate to provide on-site or online classes, making it convenient for nurses to access 128
educational resources. Moreover, mentorship programs and counseling services are implemented to guide 129
nurses through their educational journey, addressing their concerns and providing emotional support. 130

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4. | METHODS 135

4.1 | Study design 136

In this research we used a mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative and quantitative methodologies to 137
provide a comprehensive analysis of the fit between study and full-time work for nurses in the Kingdom of 138
Saudi Arabia. The qualitative component includes in-depth interviews to accurately understand nurses' 139
experiences, while the quantitative component uses surveys to collect structured data on factors influencing 140
work-study integration. 141

4.2 | Sample and study settings 142

The study targeted registered nurses working in various health care environments in different regions of the 143
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia full-time and studying at the same time. We used a stratified random sampling 144
method to ensure representation from different specialties, experience levels, and geographic locations. Study 145
settings included hospitals, clinics and healthcare institutions, reflecting the broad scope of full-time nursing 146
practice and concurrent study in the country. 147

4.3 | Data collection procedure 148

Surveys and Questionnaires: We collected quantitative data through structured surveys and questionnaires 149
distributed electronically. We designed these tools to assess full-time workload, its impact on daily family life, 150
social life, and time management skills. We used Likert scale questions and multiple choice formats to collect 151
quantitative answers 152
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Interviews: We collected qualitative data through in-depth semi-structured interviews with selected 153
participants. These interviews will explore participants' experiences, challenges and perceptions regarding the 154
balance between study and full-time work. 155

4.4 | Measurement 156

Surveys: We measured quantitative data using standardized scales and Likert items, capturing participants' 157
perceptions, attitudes and experiences related to study and work integration 158

Interviews: We obtained qualitative data through narrative responses, focusing on topics such as the challenges 159
faced, motivations, and the impact on the balance between study and full-time work. 160

4.5 | Ethical considerations 161

Informed consent: We provided participants with detailed information about the study, ensuring. informed 162
consent. They had the option to voluntarily participate and withdraw at any stage without consequences. 163

Confidentiality: We worked to strictly maintain the confidentiality of the participants. We anonymize and 164
store data securely to protect participants' identities and sensitive information. 165

Ethical approval: We submitted the research protocol to and approved by the institutional ethics committee to 166
ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and standards. 167

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4.6 | Data analysis 169

• The data collected has statistically analyzed throw (SPSS) program. The result had present in table manner. 170

• The results will be displayed according to the appropriate method. 171

• The results will be discussed and compared to studies in comparable counties. 172

• Conclusions and directions will be written according to the results of the study. 173

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5 | RESULTS 175

A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed among nursing students and the questionnaire was completed in 176
full. (response rate = 60%). The purpose of this study was the compatibility between study and full-time work for 177
nurses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Figure 1 displays the demographic characteristics of par-ticipants. 178
Participants’ ages ranged from 25 to 35 years, with a mean age of 35 (64.2%). The majority of participants (88.5%) 179
were female. The majority of participants (64.2%) was married. The percentage of participants who had children 180
was (57.4%). Participants' educational level ranged from a university diploma to a master's degree, with the 181
majority of nurses (62%) holding a bachelor's degree . 182

Figure 2 displays the impact characteristics of work on life .The percentage of the nurse’s influence on her family 183
relationship was greatly influenced (67.9%). The percentage of sufficient time for the family was sometimes 184
(60.4%).Where the answer “There is often not enough time to do personal activities such as sports, reading, etc.” 185
occupied a percentage of (48.1%). The effect on social cohesion and availability to attend social events was greatly 186
influenced by studying and working simultaneously (43.4%). We obtained a number of interactions in combining 187
study and work at the same time, provided that it was accompanied by a reduction in working hours. The 188
percentage was (41.5%). The percentage of those who could manage time appropriately was (28.3%). And those 189
who cannot (24.5%). The answer was, “Maybe time can be managed.” The percentage was (47.2%). We found 190
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the percentage of responses to improve the study situation while simultaneously working and maintaining social 191
and family life as follows. Obtaining full time from work (73.6%). Part-time is sufficient and serves the purpose 192
(24.5%). Organizing time and bringing the work location closer to the university or place of study (2%). 193

These findings provide valuable insights into the challenges nurses face in balancing study and work 194
commitments and offer suggestions for potential improvements in work arrangements to enhance study-work 195
compatibility. 196

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Figure 1: Demographic Characteristics 198

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Age Sex
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Figure 2: Impact characteristics of work on life 202

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The extent of the Adequate time
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influence of your for your family
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family relationship
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6 | DISCUSSION 213

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This study aims to explore the compatibility between study and full-time work for nurses in Saudi Arabia, examining the 215
challenges and opportunities faced by the nursing workforce in balancing educational pursuits with professional 216
responsibilities. 217
Demographic Characteristics: 218

The age distribution of participants, predominantly between 25 to 35 years with a mean age of 35, aligns with the typical age 219
range for nursing professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The higher representation of females (88.5%) is consistent 220
with the gender distribution within the nursing profession globally. The marital status and the percentage of participants with 221
children reflect the diverse personal responsibilities that nurses often balance alongside their professional duties. 222

Impact of Work on Life: 223

The study sheds light on the considerable impact of work on the personal lives of nurses. The majority reporting significant 224
influence on family relationships (67.9%) underscores the challenges nurses face in maintaining a work-life balance. The 225
finding that only sometimes there is sufficient time for family activities (60.4%) and the prevalence of insufficient time for 226
personal activities (48.1%) emphasize the need for strategies to mitigate the effects of work demands on personal life. 227

The influence on social cohesion and availability for social events (43.4%) indicates that combining study and work can impact 228
nurses' participation in broader social contexts. The reported interactions between studying and working, particularly when 229
accompanied by reduced working hours (41.5%), suggest a potential avenue for mitigating these effects. 230

Suggestions for Improving Study-Work Compatibility: 231

The participants' suggestions for improving study-work compatibility provide actionable insights. The majority proposing 232
full-time release from work (73.6%) indicates a strong desire for a supportive organizational structure that accommodates 233
educational pursuits. The consideration of part-time work as sufficient for serving the purpose (24.5%) suggests a nuanced 234
approach, recognizing that different nurses may have varying preferences and needs. The recommendation to organize time 235
and bring work closer to the study location (2%) highlights the importance of practical considerations in creating an 236
environment conducive to both work and study. 237

Comparisons with Existing Literature: 238

The findings align with existing literature emphasizing the challenges nurses face in balancing work and personal life. The 239
reported impact on family relationships and limited time for personal and social activities resonates with studies on work-life 240
balance in healthcare professions globally. The desire for organizational support, such as reduced working hours, echoes 241
literature emphasizing the role of supportive workplace policies in facilitating nurses' educational pursuits. 242

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Limitations and Recommendations: 245

It is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the study. The sample size, while providing valuable insights, may not be fully 246
representative of the diverse nursing population in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the self-report nature of the data may introduce 247
response bias, and the study's cross-sectional design limits the ability to infer causation. 248

Based on the findings, recommendations for further research could include exploring the long-term effects of study-work 249
compatibility on nurses' job satisfaction, performance, and retention. Moreover, investigating the effectiveness of specific 250
organizational interventions, such as reduced working hours, in facilitating nurses' educational pursuits could contribute to 251
evidence-based practices in the field. 252

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Implications for nursing practice 254

The study's findings carry several implications for nursing practice, emphasizing the need for targeted strategies and 255
supportive environments to enhance the compatibility between study and full-time work for nurses in Saudi Arabia. 256

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1. Organizational Support Policies: 258

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A. Flexible Work Arrangements: Nursing institutions should consider implementing flexible work arrangements, such as 259
reduced working hours or part-time schedules, to provide nurses with the necessary time and flexibility to pursue further 260
education. 261

B. Study Leave Allowances: Organizations could introduce study leave allowances, allowing nurses dedicated time off for 262
educational pursuits without compromising their employment status. This would encourage continuous learning and 263
professional development. 264

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2. Time Management Training: 266

Providing nurses with training in effective time management skills can empower them to navigate the demands of both work 267
and study more efficiently. Workshops or seminars focused on time optimization strategies could be integrated into 268
professional development programs. 269

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3. Mentorship Programs: 271

Establishing mentorship programs within healthcare organizations can offer guidance and support to nurses seeking to 272
balance study and full-time work. Experienced mentors can share insights, provide advice, and serve as a valuable resource 273
for navigating the challenges associated with dual commitments. 274

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4. Promoting a Culture of Continuous Learning: 276

Fostering a culture that values and supports continuous learning is essential. Organizations can actively promote educational 277
opportunities, encourage nurses to pursue further qualifications, and highlight the benefits of ongoing professional 278
development. 279

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5. Tailored Support for Parental Responsibilities: 281

Recognizing the impact of family responsibilities on study-work compatibility, organizations can explore tailored support for 282
nurses with children. This may include childcare services, family-friendly policies, or specific resources to assist nurses in 283
managing both professional and family obligations. 284

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6. Enhancing Workplace Flexibility: 286

Providing options for workplace flexibility, such as remote work or adjusted schedules, can contribute to a more supportive 287
environment for nurses balancing study and full-time work. Leveraging technology for virtual learning opportunities can 288
further enhance flexibility. 289

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7. Advocacy for Educational Assistance Programs: 291

Nursing associations and institutions can advocate for the development of educational assistance programs, including 292
scholarships, grants, or tuition reimbursement, to alleviate the financial burden associated with pursuing further education. 293

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8. Collaboration Between Educational and Healthcare Institutions: 295

Strengthening collaboration between educational institutions and healthcare organizations is crucial. Coordinated efforts can 296
ensure alignment between academic curricula and the practical demands of nursing practice, facilitating smoother integration 297
of study and work responsibilities. 298

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9. Promoting Work-Life Integration Initiatives: 300

Organizations should actively promote initiatives that enhance overall work-life integration for nurses. This may include 301
wellness programs, stress management resources, and initiatives that promote a healthy work-life balance. 302

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7 | CONCLUSION 305

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This study highlights the significant impact of work on the lives of nurses in Saudi Arabia and the intricate balance 307
required to integrate study and full-time employment. The findings underscore the need for targeted organizational 308
support and interventions to enhance study-work compatibility, ultimately contributing to the well-being and professional 309
development of nurses in the Kingdom. 310

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