Physiotherapists' Ethical Climate and Work Satisfaction: A STROBE-Compliant Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Occupational Health
• Physical Therapy Ethics

Background:

• Investigated the interplay between ethical climate, moral sensitivity, and job satisfaction among Spanish physical therapists.
• Addressed a gap in understanding the factors influencing job satisfaction in healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the relationship between perceptions of ethical climate, moral sensitivity, and job satisfaction in physical therapists.
• To provide insights into improving workplace environments and job satisfaction in physical therapy settings.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive correlational study was conducted with 104 physical therapists in three Spanish metropolitan hospitals.
• Data were collected using questionnaires assessing demographics, ethical climate, job satisfaction, and moral sensitivity.
• Study adhered to Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines.

Main Results:

• Physical therapists reported high job satisfaction (mean 4.2), ethical climate (mean 96.8), and moral sensitivity (mean 40.1).
• A significant positive correlation was found between job satisfaction and ethical climate (r=0.59–0.79).
• A weak correlation was observed between job satisfaction and moral sensitivity (r=0–0.32).

Conclusions:

• Physical therapists generally experience high job satisfaction, a positive ethical climate, and strong management support.
• A robust ethical climate and organizational factors are strongly associated with higher job satisfaction.
• Fostering moral sensitivity is recommended to enhance psychological well-being and clinical decision-making.