Evaluate Nurses' Environmental Consciousness as Leaders in Environmentally Sustainable Healthcare

Abstract

Background:
Climate change poses significant threats to human health and the quality of healthcare services, necessitating environmentally sustainable practices within healthcare systems. Nurses, often frontline healthcare workers, play a pivotal role in leading sustainability initiatives through programs such as Green Teams. Despite positive attitudes toward sustainability, many nurses lack sufficient knowledge and practical engagement in sustainable practices. This study examines nurses' environmental awareness, behaviors, and leadership roles in promoting ecologically sustainable healthcare.
Methods:
A sequential mixed-methods design was employed, comprising a cross-sectional survey using the Nurse’s Environmental Awareness Tool (NEAT) and qualitative interviews with nurses involved in sustainability initiatives. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Participants included 314 nurses from public and private healthcare institutions , with additional interviews conducted with Green Team leaders and environmental coordinators.
Results:
The survey revealed moderate environmental awareness among nurses, with higher engagement in sustainable behaviors outside the workplace (PEB subscale) compared to workplace behaviors (NPEB subscale). Factors such as age, work experience, and job role significantly influenced environmental behaviors. Nurses frequently cited challenges, including limited knowledge, skills, and institutional support for implementing sustainable practices at work. The qualitative findings emphasized the role of Green Teams in fostering awareness and addressing barriers, but also highlighted gaps in leadership, education, and practical guidance for sustainable practices.
Conclusion:
Nurses are essential to advancing sustainability in healthcare, yet significant barriers hinder their ability to implement sustainable practices in clinical settings. Enhancing nursing education, leadership, and institutional support for Green Teams can bridge these gaps. This study underscores the need for targeted interventions to empower nurses as leaders in ecologically sustainable healthcare systems.