Factors Explaining Nurses' Satisfaction with the Performance of Their Duties in Canada

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Workforce Studies
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Significant registered nurse (RN) shortages are a persistent challenge in Canadian provincial healthcare systems.
• The work environment is a critical factor influencing nurse satisfaction and retention.
• Nurses' Satisfaction with the Performance of their Duties (NSPD) requires focused attention to address workforce issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and test a model identifying key factors associated with Nurses' Satisfaction with the Performance of their Duties (NSPD).
• To investigate the influence of work environment elements on nurse satisfaction in Canadian healthcare settings.
• To provide evidence-based insights for improving the nursing work environment and mitigating shortages.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study was conducted in two Canadian health regions (Halifax and Saskatoon).
• A self-reported survey was administered to 230 nurses (196 RNs, 34 LPNs) in cardiology or stroke units.
• A regression model was employed to analyze the relationships between work environment factors and NSPD, controlling for years in practice.

Main Results:

• The final model explained 72.6% of the variation in NSPD.
• Significant predictors of NSPD included: Hassles (negative association), Positive Attitude, Unit Organization, Leader Actions, Objective Culture, Fulfillment, and Recognition (all positive associations).
• Years in Practice was included as a control variable in the regression model.

Conclusions:

• Work environment factors such as positive attitude, unit organization, leadership actions, organizational culture, fulfillment, and recognition significantly predict Nurses' Satisfaction with the Performance of their Duties.
• Addressing workplace stressors ('Hassles') is crucial for enhancing nurse satisfaction.
• Applying leadership, motivation, and organizational culture theories can improve the work environment, potentially alleviating nursing shortages and fostering a satisfied, experienced nursing workforce.