Exploring positive experiences in the work environment in Norwegian nursing homes – a mixed methods study

Abstract

Introduction: Workplace empowerment and job satisfaction in health care have been found related to higher quality care and lower patient risk. The aim was to explore how do health care workers in Norwegian nursing homes perceive positive factors in the work environment? Methods: The research question was examined using multiple methods. 11 workers participated in an in-depth interview. 105 workers responded to questionnaires (The Systematizing Person-Group Relations Instrument (SPGR), and the Sense of Coherence (SOC)). Analyses of qualitative data were conducted using grounded theory and the qualitative using correlation measurements. Results: Significant correlation between a strong SoC and high scores on the synergy in the SPGR were found. Interview revealed that better planning, empowerment and predictability made the workers more attended for the patients. Conclusions: Using humor and positive thinking in the work environment was found to be important to give the workers opportunity to attend to the patients in a god a way. Nursing home organizations must promote positive health and a healthy work environment to achieve a meaningful working life for health care personnel in nursing homes.