Work-redesign and Well-being in Nursing Homes for the Elderly: a Cross-sectional and Controlled-intervention Study

Abstract

Background: Job conditions in the field of nursing imply high risk factors for impaired well-being of employees. To analyse the associations between stressors, resources and well-being of nurses, we used a two-stage procedure including a cross-sectional study followed by a health-oriented work-redesign intervention. Methods: In Study 1, based on self-reported questionnaires we analysed the working conditions and indicators of psychophysical health of N=1848 nurses. In Study 2, based on data of shift observations and questionnaires a participatory work redesign intervention was conducted over a period of eight months using a baseline and follow-up assessment in the intervention (N=14) and control unit (N=14). Findings: Study 1 revealed significant associations between work stressors and caregivers’ psychophysical health. Concerning procedural outcomes in Study 2, an unexpected change of leadership negatively influenced the organization and implementation of the developed solutions. Work-related stressors (e.g., time pressure) significantly increased in the control but not in the intervention ward at follow up evaluation. Discussion: We will discuss study limitations as well as specific critical challenges and implications for the evaluation of work-redesign interventions in nursing homes for the elderly.