Nurturing others neglecting self: A qualitative study on work-life balance among nurse educators at a Gauteng nursing education institution

Background: Nurse educators are instrumental in preparing the next generation of nurses. However, the changing landscape of nursing education is making it difficult for them to exemplify and advocate for work-life balance (WLB). Nursing education institutions face challenges with limited resources and increasing student numbers, making educators crucial for maintaining high educational standards. Despite this, there has been limited research on how educators manage the overlapping pressures of their careers and personal lives. Objectives: This study explored the experiences of nurse educators regarding WLB at a nursing education institution in Gauteng province, South Africa. Method: A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was employed. Purposive sampling was used to select 16 nurse educators across four campuses. Data collection involved face-to-face individual semi-structured interviews, and data analysis followed a qualitative thematic approach. Results: This research revealed two themes: Heavy workload and responsibilities, and Blurred boundaries between work and personal life. The spillover of work demands into personal time, particularly those driven by student expectations, emerged as a significant challenge to achieving a balanced work-life dynamic. Conclusion: Addressing the challenges faced by nurse educators in achieving WLB requires more than individual resilience. There is a need for comprehensive support systems and strategic interventions to help nurse educators manage their responsibilities effectively and achieve a healthier balance between work and life. Contribution: This study could assist larger efforts to create supportive and sustainable work environments for nurse educators, which would benefit the educators and further the development of the nursing profession.