Perceptions of Clinical Connectedness Among Hospital Environmental Service Workers

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Occupational Health
• Infection Prevention

Background:

• Environmental service workers (ESWs) are essential frontline staff in hospitals, crucial for infection prevention and patient experience.
• Their role includes managing regulated waste, janitorial duties, and maintaining a safe patient environment.
• A lack of integration with clinical teams can negatively impact patient outcomes and hospital operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of environmental service workers (ESWs) regarding their sense of pride and connection to hospital-based clinical teams.
• To identify factors contributing to feelings of connection and disconnection among ESWs.
• To understand the impact of these feelings on job satisfaction and overall teamwork.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study was conducted with 10 environmental service workers (ESWs) at a university hospital.
• Data collection involved participants taking pictures and writing vignettes about their work experiences.
• Interviews focused on pride, connection, and disconnection from clinical care teams.

Main Results:

• ESWs derive pride from maintaining clean environments, building relationships, and assisting others.
• Participants reported feeling disconnected due to colleagues not adhering to protocols, leading to feelings of invisibility and undervaluation.
• Connections were fostered through community, valuable relationships, and effective communication with clinical teams.

Conclusions:

• Environmental service workers (ESWs) experience both connection and disconnection within hospital clinical teams.
• Hospitals should prioritize acknowledging, recognizing, and treating ESWs as equals to improve morale and retention.
• Leadership must actively explore ESW experiences to enhance job satisfaction, teamwork, and camaraderie.