Empowerment and job satisfaction among nurses in magnet and non-magnet hospitals

Abstract

K34 _2008AbstractKaetzelDAbstractIn a society alarmed by health care errors and breeches in safety, nurse leaders must create workplaces where nurses practice safely and nursing care is delivered effectively. Research has identified characteristics of healthy workplaces that are associated with high quality, safe patient care. For example, Aiken, Havens and Sloan (2000) determined that nurses employed in hospitals with Magnet designation had higher job satisfaction and were empowered to use their professional knowledge and skills in delivering excellent nursing care. Magnet recognition is a coveted national honor, awarded to health care facilities that provide exceptional nursing care. The purpose of this study is to further examine differences in job satisfaction and empowerment among nurses employed in Magnet and non-Magnet facilities. The study is a partial replication of a research study by Upenieks (2003). Kanter's (1977/1993) theory of organizational behavior guides the study. The sample will be 155 nurses from two Magnet hospitals and 150 nurses from two non-Magnet organizations. The four hospitals will represent different geographical regions of America. The revised Nursing Work Index (NWI-R) and the revised Conditions of Work Effectiveness Questionnaire (CWEQ-II) will measure study variables. Findings will provide information for nurse leaders to use in shaping organizational cultures in various geographical regions.Ball State UniversityMuncie, IN 47306