A comparison of nurse-related behaviour, philosophy of care and job satisfaction in team and primary nursing

The study compares team and primary nursing modes of organization of nursing care on three related variables, namely: nurse-related behaviour and quality of care, philosophy of care and job satisfaction for nurses. The historical dimension and evolution of modes of care, quality of care, philosophy of care and theories of job satisfaction are discussed within the context of the study. The literature and previous research studies conducted on team and primary nursing are reviewed and comparisons of the two are made. Analysis of data collected yielded results which are compared for differences and benefits between team and primary nursing. The results of the study suggest that when compared to team nursing mode of organization of care, primary nursing affords increased quality of care, a more coherent philosophy of nursing and increased job satisfaction for nurses. Methodological problems are examined and implications for policy explored.