Workload demand: a significant factor in the overall well-being of directors of associate degree nursing programs

This descriptive study of workload in relation to the overall well-being of academic program directors was conducted among 242 associate degree nursing program directors in the United States. The Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire II from researchers in Denmark was the instrument used. Participants reported high levels of quantitative and emotional work demands that correlated with high levels of stress, burnout, sleep problems, and decreasing overall physical health. These results support international research findings that have analyzed similar variables in other employment positions. As we face a growing international shortage of nurses, the need for nurse faculty and nurse program directors continues to grow. However, given the state of the nurse program director position, it is not surprising that few qualified faculty prospective applicants are expressing interest in an administrative role. Results are discussed in relation to other recent workload studies, and recommendations follow.