Understanding intergenerational characteristics of nurses in clinical practice

Authors

  • Neža Ukmar Hospital Sežana, Cankarjeva 4, 6210 Sežana, Slovenia
  • Simona Trpin Hospital Sežana, Cankarjeva 4, 6210 Sežana, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0009-0009-1269-1711
  • Mirko Prosen University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Polje 42, 6310 Izola, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9943-9037
  • Sabina Ličen University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Polje 42, 6310 Izola, Slovenia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8795-7985

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14528/snr.2025.59.1.3288

Keywords:

nursing, working environment, intergenerational cooperation, quality, satisfaction

Abstract

Introduction: In the context of globally changing and multigenerational work environments, understanding generational differences is crucial for reducing conflict and improving collaboration in nursing care. The aim of this study was to explore the intergenerational characteristics of nurses in clinical practice.
Methods: In this non-experimental, descriptive, quantitative study, a translated version of the Multidimensional Nursing Generations Questionnaire was used to assess generational differences in nursing. A convenience sample of 100 nurses working in the clinical setting was surveyed. A total of 91 respondents (91%) were women and 9 (9%) were men. The data were analysed using basic descriptive statistics and non-parametric statistical tests such as the Kruskal-Wallis test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and the one-sample Wilcoxon signed-rank test.
Results: The results of the study indicate good coordination and collaboration between individual generations of respondents, a high degree of openness to change, autonomy and confidence in decision-making, and a positive attitude towards work (p < 0.001). Higher scores were reported by Generation X employees, men, employees with a master's degree, and primary care employees. However, the results show no statistically significant differences between the groups in the assessment of knowledge of intergenerational characteristics among nurses (p > 0.05).
Discussion and conclusion: Our results indicate good intergenerational interaction and coordination among nursing professionals. The study contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of intergenerational collaboration in nursing, which has the potential to improve working relationships and the quality of care.

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Published

2025-03-21

How to Cite

Ukmar, N., Trpin, S., Prosen, M., & Ličen, S. (2025). Understanding intergenerational characteristics of nurses in clinical practice. Slovenian Nursing Review, 59(1), 8–22. https://doi.org/10.14528/snr.2025.59.1.3288

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