Relationship between Demographic Factors and Entrepreneurial Competencies among Healthcare Nurses

Abstract

Background: As global socioeconomic pressures increase, particularly in healthcare, nurses need entrepreneurial competencies to adapt to growing demands. However, these competencies have not been widely recognised in nursing, especially in Saudi Arabia. Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between demographic factors and entrepreneurial competencies among nurses in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted using the snowball sampling technique. Nurses from a tertiary hospital were recruited, and data were collected via an online survey. The survey measured entrepreneurial intentions and entrepreneurship competencies such as self-confidence, control-oriented behaviour, opportunity utilisation, determination, innovativeness, and risk-bearing. The statistical analysis was used to identify significant differences based on demographic factors. Descriptive statistics, T-tests, ANOVA, and correlation analyses examine relationships between demographics, entrepreneurship competencies, and intention. Results: Nurses displayed moderate to high levels of entrepreneurship competencies. Significant differences were found in competencies based on nationality, management position, management training, employment status, and future self-employment intentions (p<0.05). Additionally, certain competencies varied with marital status, income level, age, years of experience, and having children (p<0.05). Higher entrepreneurship competencies were positively associated with the desire to start a business. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need to foster entrepreneurial competencies among nurses in Saudi Arabia. Future entrepreneurial potential can be enhanced by strengthening management training, fostering diversity, cultivating supportive environments, and nurturing forward-thinking mindsets.