Identifying factors influencing cardiac care nurses’ work ability within the framework of the SEIPS model

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Due to their physically and mentally demanding job, nurses are exposed to high risk of fatigue and musculoskeletal disorders, through which their work ability could be adversely affected.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to identify factors influencing nurses’ work ability by using a macroergonomic model.

METHODS:

Descriptive and qualitative analyses were carried out in two phases of the study. First, 41 nurses of the cardiac intensive care unit in a military hospital in Iran filled in the work ability questionnaire (WAI). In the second phase, in order to identify factors influencing work ability of the nurses, a semi-structural interview within the framework of the System Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model was conducted. Consequently, data were analysed and compared by multiple experts using directed content analysis method.

RESULTS:

The mean work ability of the nurses was 40.01±4.05 (good work ability). 22 themes were identified through the directed content analysis and they were classified in 5 categories of the SEIPS model including environment, tools and technology, task, person, and organization.

CONCLUSIONS:

Using a macroergonomic approach proved to be valuable in identifying factors influencing work ability of nurses. These factors should be considered by managers and HFE practitioners designing intervention programs to improve nurses’ work ability.