Introduction & Objective: In view of different aspects of work environments, the issues related to it is considered as a principal apprehension. For creating of health work environments that contribute to recruit and retain qualified nurses, their perceptions about the indicators of healthy work environments should be regarded . Thus better comprehension of the characteristics of a quality work environment from nurses’ perspective is needed for nurse managers.

Materials & Methods: The purpose of this qualitative study was to describe the perceptions held by nurses concerning their work environments. The participants in this study consisted of 30 nurses from 3 public hospitals in Tehran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and qualitative content analysis was used to identify the categories and subcategories found in the nurses' descriptions of what creates and contributes to their indicators of work environment.

Results: The following categories emerged from the analysis: (1) Becoming immersed in a stress sea (2) Cold and silent work atmospheres (with sub themes happy work environment, work environment atmosphere and perceived support) and (3) Personal attitude and beliefs about nursing. Structuring of optimum work environments and designing the "meaningful work with using special knowledge" by nurse managers not only can produce healthy and creative work environments, but also can enhance nurses’ quality of work life.

Conclusion: Thus the findings have implications for nurse managers, who wish to improve the nurses’ Indicators of Health Work Environment.