Perceived Work Environment and Work-Related Well-Being in Nursing Homes: Comparison of Different Care Worker Groups

Abstract

Background A skilled and diverse healthcare workforce is essential in nursing homes, yet recruitment and retention remain a major challenge. Gaining insight into the well-being of different care worker groups and how they perceive their work environment can highlight areas of concern and opportunities for improvement.Aims To compare the perceived work environment and well-being among different care worker groups in nursing homes.Methods This descriptive study used cross-sectional survey data from the Flanders Nursing Home (FLANH) project, collected from February-July 2023. A total of 1521 care workers from 25 Flemish nursing homes participated (64.4% response rate), including care assistants (43.7%), registered nurses (20.5%), support staff (15.4%), allied health professionals (14.8%), and team leaders (5.7%). Chi-squared tests were used to compare the percentages of the care worker groups reporting the work environment items and well-being outcomes (job satisfaction, intention to leave, burnout). Post hoc analyses were conducted to identify which groups contributed to the significant differences observed.Results Significant differences among care worker groups were found for almost all work environment items and well-being outcomes. Staffing adequacy was perceived least among care assistants and registered nurses. More registered nurses and team leaders perceived high workload and emotional burden compared to the other groups. Work-life interference and involvement were perceived most among team leaders. A person-centered vision, work autonomy, and salary satisfaction were reported most among allied health professionals and team leaders. Skill use and training opportunities were reported least among support staff. Work-related well-being appeared to be experienced most among allied health professionals and least among care assistants.Linking Evidence to Action These findings highlight key differences in work environment perceptions and well-being among care worker groups, offering valuable insights for tailored initiatives to foster a supportive workplace that benefits the well-being of all types of care workers in nursing homes.