Exploring the Job Satisfaction of Cross-Trained Nurses in a Tertiary Hospital in Marikina City

This descriptive phenomenological study investigated the lived experiences of cross-trained nurses on clinical units and their effects on their job satisfaction. Interviews were conducted and analyzed using Colaizzi’s methods for descriptive phenomenology. The themes that emerged from the study are: (1) Cross-Training as a Foundation for Professional Growth Through Diverse Clinical Exposure; (2) Navigating Uncertainty: From Initial Anxiety to Gradual Adaptation in the Cross-Training Experience; (3) Empowering Growth Through Guidance, Mentorship, and Supportive Learning Environments; (4) Recognition and Collaborative Relationships Foster Professional Fulfillment and Commitment; and (5) Enhancing Cross-Training Through Structured Preparation, Organizational Support, and a Culture of Lifelong Learning. The study concluded that cross-training could enhance nurses' professional skills and self-confidence, improve their ability to adjust to new environments, increase job satisfaction, and facilitate a deeper understanding of their fields, areas of concern, and specialties. Fear and uncertainty were experienced at first, but they can adapt with training, effective mentorship, supportive supervision, and a culture that supports continual learning. They view that cross-training should be recognized as a career development opportunity and not a staffing measure for filling a vacancy or shortages. It concludes that cross-training is beneficial to nurses’ professional development, continued professional growth and development, and contributes to delivering quality patient care through an efficient and flexible workforce. It is recommended to implement structured competency-based cross-training programs for nurses, provide necessary support, mentorship, and learning opportunities, and foster a culture of a continuously learning organization.