Work-related flow and its correlates among frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic

Ample evidence across non-healthcare fields highlights the role of work-related flow in enhancing resilience against work stress and work engagement. Understanding flow and its factors can support staff development and management.

This study aimed to investigate the level of work-related flow and its associated factors among frontline nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A cross-sectional multicenter study included 336 nurses caring for COVID-19 patients between March and April 2022. Cluster random sampling was used to select 9 nurse groups from 29 Taiwanese hospitals specialized in COVID-19 care. A web survey link was shared on the selected nurses' social media. Hierarchical regression analyses examined predictor-outcome relationships, following the STROBE checklist for reporting findings.

Among demographic characteristics, sex (β = -0.11; p = 0.016) and living arrangement (β = -0.12; p = 0.017) reached statistical significance in model 3. Social support from family, friends, and significant others, managerial position, and sufficiency of personal protective equipment showed significant associations with work-related flow (all β > 0.12; p < 0.05). The variables included in the final model accounted for 35% of the variance in work-related flow for COVID-19 patient care tasks.

Flow experience is influenced by factors associated with demographics, work conditions, and social support. Nurse administrators should consider these factors when evaluating nurses' flow at work.

Allocating care tasks to nurses based on their flow levels can be beneficial, particularly during healthcare crises. Ensuring a sufficient supply of personal protective equipment and offering social support to nurses are vital strategies for facilitating their flow experience in the workplace.