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Efimov I, Agricola CJ, Nienhaus A, Harth V, Zyriax BC, Mache S. Stress perception, coping behaviors and work-privacy conflict of student midwives in times of COVID-19 pandemic: the "Healthy MidStudents" study in Germany. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:594. [PMID: 38714981 PMCID: PMC11075225 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Student midwives deliver care for women under challenging job demands, which may affect their mental health- thus creating a high need for health promotion. Given the lack of research addressing this topic, the aim of this study is to examine the links between stress perception, coping behaviors, work-privacy conflict, and perception of COVID-19 pandemic impact on studies of student midwives in northern Germany. METHODS Data were collected using a cross-sectional online-survey at nine midwifery study sites in northern Germany from October 2022 to January 2023. 342 student midwives (response rate: 61.3%) were surveyed on stress perception, coping behaviors, work-privacy conflict, and perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their studies. Descriptive, linear regression and moderation analyses were run to test explorative assumptions. RESULTS Results revealed that higher levels of perceived stress were reported by 13.4% of student midwives. Social support (M = 13.76, SD = 2.19) and active stress coping (M = 10.72, SD = 2.01) were identified as most prevalent coping behaviors in the present sample. It was found that work-privacy conflict was positively associated with stress perception (ß = 0.53, p =.001) and maladaptive coping behaviors (alcohol and cigarette consumption: ß = 0.14, p =.015), and negatively associated with adaptive coping behaviors (positive thinking: ß = - 0.25, p =.001, social support: ß = - 0.23, p =.001). Students with children reported significantly lower levels of social support than students without children. 55.6% of student midwives perceived a negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their studies (mostly on lectures, seminars, and contact with fellow students). CONCLUSIONS Key findings highlighted moderate stress levels among student midwives during theoretical study stage. Based on current research, prevalence of high stress levels among student midwives remains unclear. Given the overall heterogeneous, limited research on student midwives' stress perception, coping behaviors, work-privacy conflict and perceptions of COVID-19 pandemic impact on studies, implications for research are suggested, e.g. longitudinal studies at different time points and settings and interventional studies. Findings provide a starting point for implementation of workplace health promotion in theoretical and practical stages of midwifery science study programs, e.g. training courses on stress prevention and adaptive coping, and for improvement of working conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilona Efimov
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Seewartenstr. 10, 20459, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Caroline Johanna Agricola
- Midwifery Science Health Care Research and Prevention, Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Albert Nienhaus
- Competence Center for Epidemiology and Health Services Research for Healthcare Professionals, Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Seewartenstr. 10, 20459, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Birgit-Christiane Zyriax
- Midwifery Science Health Care Research and Prevention, Institute for Health Services Research in Dermatology and Nursing, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Seewartenstr. 10, 20459, Hamburg, Germany
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Del Pilar Quiñones-Rozo L, Canaval-Erazo GE. Quality of work life for health professions in Colombia's adult critical care: An integrative analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:582. [PMID: 38702763 PMCID: PMC11071144 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10780-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health professionals in Colombian and many parts of the world, in some cases, work in precarious conditions and intend to migrate to other countries in search of better living conditions for themselves and their families, which results in inadequate distribution worldwide and in the quality of care throughout the health system, which can ultimately influence the quality of life of patients in their health-disease processes. PURPOSE Describe in depth what quality of life at work is like for the health workforce in adult critical care (ACC). METHODS This is an investigation of convergent parallel mixed methods approach that are integrated by means of a matrix in terms of convergence, divergence, and complementarity. Two methods are used: a transversal analytical method in which three instruments were applied to 209 participants to study the relationship between Quality of Life at Work, exposure to psychosocial risks, compassion fatigue and the intention to rotate; other than from the experiences narrated by 10 Human Talent in Health explore organizational practices in critical care. RESULTS The dimension of quality of work life with the greatest dissatisfied was the management of free time (77%), the most compromised psychosocial risk was the pace of work (84%). They have high compassion satisfaction (67%) and there is an intention to migrate to another country (66%). The narrative results in discrimination/harassment as normalized practices and faceless spirituality. The integration of mixed methods shows convergence between the use of the instrument that measures quality of life at work and the narratives of the participants, complementarity with the other instruments, and divergence regarding the intention to rotate to another health institution. CONCLUSION The positive trend that converges with the two approaches is that of safety at work and well-being achieved through work, embodied in the constant updating of technology and care protocols, experience time, balance between salary and work effort, staffing and supplies, and disconnection with work.
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Längle G, Raschmann S, Heinsch A, Großmann T, Fischer L, Timm J, Bechdolf A, von Peter S, Weinmann S, Nikolaidis K, Brieger P, Hamann J, Waldmann T, Schwarz J, Rout S, Herwig U, Richter J, Hirschmeier C, Baumgardt J, Holzke M. [Does Inpatient Equivalent Home Treatment lead to higher satisfaction? Results on satisfaction of persons involved in treatment within the Multi-center AKtiV Study]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2024; 51:202-208. [PMID: 37989203 DOI: 10.1055/a-2179-6983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
This part of the AKtiV Study focuses on treatment satisfaction of patients and their relatives within Inpatient Equivalent Home Treatment (IEHT) and regular treatment. Stress of relatives and job satisfaction and workload of employees in IEHT is also considered. Relevant Parameters were collected via established as well as newly adapted questionnaires at the end of treatment. Patients and relatives in IEHT are significantly more satisfied. The stress experienced by relatives is reduced in both forms of treatment. Employees in IEHT are generally very satisfied, although there is no correlation with the satisfaction of relatives and patients. Known limitations of satisfaction surveys must be taken into account. In general these results encourage the expansion and continuous development of this new form of treatment in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Längle
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Zwiefalten, ZfP Südwürttemberg
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychosomatik Reutlingen, Gemeinnützige GmbH für Psychiatrie Reutlingen (PP.rt), Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Tübingen
- Allgemeine Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie mit Poliklinik, Medizinische Fakultät Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen
| | - Svenja Raschmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Zwiefalten, ZfP Südwürttemberg
| | - Anna Heinsch
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie I, Universität Ulm, ZfP Südwürttemberg, Weissenau
| | - Tamara Großmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie I, Universität Ulm, ZfP Südwürttemberg, Weissenau
| | - Lasse Fischer
- Kompetenzzentrum für Klinische Studien Bremen, Universität Bremen
| | - Jürgen Timm
- Kompetenzzentrum für Klinische Studien Bremen, Universität Bremen
| | - Andreas Bechdolf
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charite Universitätsmedizin Berlin
| | - Sebastian von Peter
- Abteilung für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Zentrum für seelische Gesundheit, Immanuel Klinikum Rüdersdorf, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg, Rüdersdorf
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften Brandenburg, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Ruppiner Kliniken GmbH, Neuruppin
| | - Stefan Weinmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, MediClin Klinik an der Lindenhöhe, Offenburg
- Universitäre Psychiatrische Kliniken (UPK) Basel, Medizinische Fakultät Universität Basel
| | - Konstantinos Nikolaidis
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Charite Universitätsmedizin Berlin
| | - Peter Brieger
- kbo-Isar-Amper-Klinikum Haar, akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München
| | - Johannes Hamann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Bezirksklinikum Mainkofen, Deggendorf
| | - Tamara Waldmann
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie II (Günzburg), Medizinische Fakultät Universität Ulm, Günzburg
| | - Julian Schwarz
- Abteilung für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Zentrum für seelische Gesundheit, Immanuel Klinikum Rüdersdorf, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg, Rüdersdorf
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften Brandenburg, Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Ruppiner Kliniken GmbH, Neuruppin
| | - Sandeep Rout
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Vivantes Klinikum Neukölln, Berlin
| | - Uwe Herwig
- Zentrum für Psychiatrie Reichenau, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Konstanz, Reichenau
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie III, Universität Ulm
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Zürich
| | - Janina Richter
- Allgemeine Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie mit Poliklinik, Medizinische Fakultät Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen
| | | | - Johanna Baumgardt
- Klinik für Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie und Psychosomatik, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin
| | - Martin Holzke
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie I, Universität Ulm, ZfP Südwürttemberg, Weissenau
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Lieb M, Erim Y, Morawa E. Development and validation of a questionnaire for measuring team cohesion: the Erlangen Team Cohesion at Work Scale (ETC). BMC Psychol 2024; 12:91. [PMID: 38388465 PMCID: PMC10885512 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01583-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Team cohesion is a crucial factor when it comes to job satisfaction and turnovers. However, in Germany, economic measures for team cohesion are scarce. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an economic self-report questionnaire for measuring team cohesion in a work setting in health care. METHODS The questionnaire was developed in a stepwise procedure. After item analysis, exploratory factor analysis was conducted to assess factor structure. Reliability was tested via internal consistency. To assess convergent and divergent validity, we applied the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ), the Perceived Cohesion Scale (PCS), the ENRICHD Social Support Inventory (ESSI), the Effort-Reward Imbalance Scale (ERI) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), respectively. RESULTS The pilot version was tested in a sample of n = 126 adult nurses. Item analysis resulted in a total of 13 items for the final version. Exploratory factor analysis indicated a two-factor structure. Internal consistency for the two subscales was good, with α = 0.88 and α = 0.84, respectively. Convergent validity with the subscales of COPSOQ and PCS was moderate to high (r =.26- r =.64). For divergent validity, correlations with the ESSI were low (r =.01- r = -.09). We further found significant correlations with depression symptoms (r=-.22- r=-.37), as well as reward (ERI) (r =.41 -r =.47) and effort (ERI) (r=-.20 - r = -.24). CONCLUSIONS We developed and validated the Erlangen Team Cohesion at Work Scale (ETC), a self-report measure for team cohesion with very good psychometric properties. Due to its economic deployment, it is suitable for measuring team cohesion in work settings, especially in health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marietta Lieb
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Yesim Erim
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Eva Morawa
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Schwabachanlage 6, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
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Sternberg A, Fauser D, Banaschak H, Bethge M. Sequences of vocational rehabilitation services in Germany: a cohort study. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:74. [PMID: 38225557 PMCID: PMC10788977 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10499-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to describe sequences of vocational rehabilitation services among individuals with approved vocational rehabilitation in Germany and to identify typical service sequences. METHODS We used administrative data on vocational rehabilitation services and questionnaire data on health and work ability to describe frequencies and sequences of vocational rehabilitation services financed by the Federal German Pension Insurance. Through sequence analysis, we were able to map the service sequences. We did cluster analyses to identify typical different service sequences. RESULTS Our sample included 1,652 individuals with 2,584 services. Integration services and two-year vocational retraining were the most common services. We could identify three different service clusters around integration services: shorter ones, followed by employer benefits and without employer benefits. We found two different clusters around two-year vocational retraining: shorter and longer clusters. Two-year vocational retraining was more often initiated by preparatory services and followed by employer benefits than integration services. Longer services in both clusters were associated with better baseline data for physical health, work ability, risk of future work disability, and younger age than shorter services. People in two-year-vocational retraining reported at baseline better general health, better work ability, low risk of future work disability, and less mental illness compared to people in integration services. CONCLUSIONS Multiple services, that is, sequences of services, were more likely to occur among individuals with more complex services like two-year vocational retraining. Utilization of complex services and longer services was influenced by health, age, risk of future work disability, and education. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00009910, registration 25/01/2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Sternberg
- Institute for Social Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany.
| | - David Fauser
- Institute for Social Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Hannes Banaschak
- Institute for Social Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Matthias Bethge
- Institute for Social Medicine and Epidemiology, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562, Lübeck, Germany
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Emal LM, Tamminga SJ, Schaafsma FG, Jakasa I, Peremin I, Kirschbaum C, van der Molen HF, Kezic S. Exploring the potential of stratum corneum biomarkers for assessing psychological distress in health care workers: An observational pilot study. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1710. [PMID: 38186941 PMCID: PMC10764658 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The detection of biomarkers of a stress response in the stratum corneum (SC) could be used as objective assessment of early stress symptoms and monitoring of stress reduction interventions in health care workers (HCWs). Aim The aim of this study is to explore SC biomarkers of immune and hormonal response and skin barrier for assessment of psychological distress (PD) in HCWs. Methods Twenty-five female HCWs and 25 non-HCWs participated. SC samples were collected using adhesive tapes at baseline and 3-5 days later (T1). We analyzed 24 biomarkers (immunological, vascular, hormones, and natural moisturizing factors). Stress symptoms were assessed using three scales of Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire. The study involved: identifying SC biomarkers, correlating stress symptoms and biomarkers at baseline and T1, examining stress symptoms between the groups with a Mann-Whitney test, comparing stress symptoms and biomarkers between groups using Ordinary Least Regression and investigating temporal variability of SC biomarkers at baseline and T1 using a Wilcoxon-signed rank. Results Fourteen SC biomarkers were identified. We found correlations between general stress and "IL18" (r = 0.55) physical stress and "IL1b" (r = 0.36) and cognitive stress and "MIP3a" (r = 0.38) at baseline and general stress and cortisol (r = -0.49), physical stress and cortisol (r = -0.60) and cortisone (r = -0.67) at T1. We found no differences in stress symptoms and biomarkers between the groups, except for "MIP3a" at baseline. Differences in the biomarker levels between two time points were found for "TARC," "VEGFA," "ILRA," "IL1RA/IL1a," "NMF," and "DHEA." Conclusion The SC can be suitable biological material to assess biomarkers related to immune response, hormonal response, and skin barrier function. The SC biomarkers, showed strong, moderate and weak correlations with stress symptoms. Notably, these associations include cytokines of innate immunity and well-known stress hormones, cortisol and cortisone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lima M. Emal
- Department of Public and Occupational health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research InstituteUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamNoord‐HollandNetherlands
| | - Sietske J. Tamminga
- Department of Public and Occupational health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research InstituteUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamNoord‐HollandNetherlands
| | - Frederieke G. Schaafsma
- Department of Public and Occupational health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research InstituteUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamNoord‐HollandNetherlands
| | - Ivone Jakasa
- Laboratory for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Food Technology and BiotechnologyUniversity of ZagrebZagrebCroatia
| | - Ines Peremin
- Laboratory for Analytical Chemistry, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Food Technology and BiotechnologyUniversity of ZagrebZagrebCroatia
| | | | - Henk F. van der Molen
- Department of Public and Occupational health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research InstituteUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamNoord‐HollandNetherlands
| | - Sanja Kezic
- Department of Public and Occupational health, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam Public Health Research InstituteUniversity of AmsterdamAmsterdamNoord‐HollandNetherlands
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses frequently face situations in their daily practice that are ethically difficult to handle and can lead to moral distress. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to explore the phenomenon of moral distress and describe its work-related predictors and individual consequences for home-care nurses in Germany. RESEARCH DESIGN A cross-sectional design was employed. The moral distress scale and the COPSOQ III-questionnaire were used within the framework of an online survey conducted among home-care nurses in Germany. Frequency analyses, multiple linear and logistic regressions, and Rasch analyses were performed. PARTICIPANTS AND RESEARCH CONTEXT The invitation to participate was sent to every German home-care service (n = 16,608). ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS The study was approved by the Data Protection Office and Ethics Committee of the German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. RESULTS A total of 976 home-care nurses participated in this study. Job characteristics, such as high emotional demands, frequent work-life-conflicts, low influence at work, and low social support, were associated with higher disturbance caused by moral distress in home-care nurses. Organizational characteristics of home-care services, such as time margin with patients, predicted moral distress. High disturbance levels due to moral distress predicted higher burnout, worse state of health, and the intention to leave the job and the profession, but did not predict sickness absence. CONCLUSIONS To prevent home-care nurses from experiencing severe consequences of moral distress, adequate interventions should be developed. Home-care services ought to consider family friendly shifts, provide social support, such as opportunities for exchange within the team, and facilitate coping with emotional demands. Sufficient time for patient care must be scheduled and short-term takeover of unknown tours should be prevented. There is a need to develop and evaluate additional interventions aimed at reducing moral distress, specifically in the home-care nursing sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petersen
- Julia Petersen, Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Dresden, Fabricestrasse 8, D-01099, Dresden,
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Bußmann A, Pomorin N. Psychosocial burdens in palliative care - a longitudinal cohort study in nursing homes and impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Palliat Care 2023; 22:163. [PMID: 37891538 PMCID: PMC10612279 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-023-01292-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Germany, palliative care in nursing homes is becoming increasingly important. Simultaneously, nursing homes are particularly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to their vulnerable residents leading to increased burdens for nursing staff. Although a separate unit for palliative care may not be present in nursing homes as it is in, e.g., hospitals, palliative care occupies a large portion of the workday in nursing homes. As no study addressing this topic could be found, this study focused on the research questions of how the psychosocial burdens faced by nursing staff in palliative care have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and how those burdens differ from the psychosocial burdens encountered in general care. METHODS Basen on a longitudinal cohort study design, a total of 113 nurses, nursing assistants and caregivers drawn from two nursing homes in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, were surveyed pre-pandemic in 2019 and during the pandemic in 2022 using the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) III. Data were examined descriptively following the standardised COPSOQ procedure. Additionally, chi-squared test was conducted to investigate the homogeneity between the groups. Mean differences (MD) were provided and Cohen's d was calculated to evaluate relevant differences in psychosocial burdens between 2019 and 2022. In a second step, t-tests were performed to test statistical significance. RESULTS Relevant positive changes could be identified in 'Quantitative demands' (d = 0.321; MD = 5.9), 'Influence at work' (d = 0.244; MD = 5.4), 'Job insecurity' (d = 0.321; MD = 6.5), 'Insecurity over working conditions' (d = 0.296; MD = 6.8), 'Burnout symptoms related to residents' (d = 0.201; MD = 3.8), 'Degrees of freedom' (d = 0.455; MD = 9.6) and 'Presenteeism' (d = 0.425; MD = 11.8). Relevant negative changes were found in 'Dissolution' (d = 0.217; MD = 5.4; i.e., setting boundaries between work and private life), 'Role conflicts' (d = 0.282; MD = 5.5), 'Role clarity' (d = 0.251; MD = 3.3) and 'Burnout symptoms related to relatives' (d = 0.318; MD = 6.0). Relevant changes that were statistically significant according to the t-test could be identified in 'Degrees of freedom' (t-value=-2.40; p = 0.018) and 'Presenteeism' (t-value = 2.26; p = 0.026). Responses to questions concerning nursing homes' handling of the COVID-19 pandemic exhibited a mean score of 68.2 for 'Organisation/communication' and a mean score of 78.1 concerning 'Operational measures and overall assessment' during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Besides negative changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, some categories showed more positive results. The burdens of palliative care in nursing homes may be perceived differently than those of general care in nursing homes. Furthermore, the results indicate that perceptions of challenges in palliative care in nursing homes during the pandemic seem to be highly dependent on organisational working conditions and support that can strengthen the individual resources and resilience of the staff.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bußmann
- Essener Forschungsinstitut für Medizinmanagement GmbH, Essen, Germany.
| | - Natalie Pomorin
- Essener Forschungsinstitut für Medizinmanagement GmbH, Essen, Germany
- FOM Hochschule für Oekonomie & Management gemeinnützige Gesellschaft mbH, Düsseldorf, Germany
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Uhlenbrock G, Schulze S, Sappl I, Rapp MA, Tallarek M, Spallek J, Holmberg C. [Concern about Covid-19 Infection and the Risk of Burnout Symptoms: a Study of Caregiver Stress in Brandenburg Nursing Homes During the Covid-19 Pandemic]. PSYCHIATRISCHE PRAXIS 2023; 50:353-360. [PMID: 37072030 DOI: 10.1055/a-2019-6495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Investigation of the association of concern about own infection or infection of friends, family and care recipients with Covid-19 and burnout symptoms of caregivers in Brandenburg full inpatient geriatric care facilities. METHODS Cross-sectional survey of nursing staff (n=195) in Brandenburg nursing homes between August and December 2020 regarding their psychosocial stress at work. RESULTS Concern about having infected oneself, family and/or friends, or care recipients with Covid-19 is associated with increased expression of burnout symptoms (b=0,200, t(155)=2,777, p=0,006). CONCLUSION Increased experience of burnout symptoms due to concerns of risk of infection with Covid-19 in the workplace indicates a need for comprehensive support measures as well as sustainable approaches to managing psychosocial stress for geriatric caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Uhlenbrock
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg
| | - Susanne Schulze
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Gemeinsame Fakultät der Universität Potsdam, der Brandenburgischen Technischen Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg und der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Potsdam
- Sozial- und Präventivmedizin, Universität Potsdam
| | - Isabella Sappl
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg
| | - Michael A Rapp
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Gemeinsame Fakultät der Universität Potsdam, der Brandenburgischen Technischen Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg und der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Potsdam
- Sozial- und Präventivmedizin, Universität Potsdam
| | - Marie Tallarek
- Fakultät für Soziale Arbeit, Gesundheit und Musik, Brandenburgische Technische Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg
| | - Jacob Spallek
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Gemeinsame Fakultät der Universität Potsdam, der Brandenburgischen Technischen Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg und der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Potsdam
- Fakultät für Soziale Arbeit, Gesundheit und Musik, Brandenburgische Technische Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg
| | - Christine Holmberg
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie Medizinische Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg
- Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Gemeinsame Fakultät der Universität Potsdam, der Brandenburgischen Technischen Universität Cottbus-Senftenberg und der Medizinischen Hochschule Brandenburg Theodor Fontane, Potsdam
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Bail C, Harth V, Mache S. Digitalization in Urology-A Multimethod Study of the Relationships between Physicians' Technostress, Burnout, Work Engagement and Job Satisfaction. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2255. [PMID: 37628451 PMCID: PMC10454488 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11162255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential influences of digitization on the mental health of personnel in the healthcare sector are increasingly coming into the scientific focus in the healthcare sector, especially in terms of the use of information and communication technologies. To date, there have been no German studies of the effects of technostress in healthcare. This cross-sectional study examined the relationships between technostress, burnout, work engagement, and job satisfaction among physicians in the field of urology. Data were collected via an online survey based on the job demands-resources model and the concept of technostress. The survey was sent to German urologists working in inpatient clinics. The participating physicians experienced moderate levels of technostress (M = 2.67, SD = 0.69). The results, based on a general linear model analysis, showed that technostress is significantly positively associated with burnout (β = 0.293; p < 0.001) and negatively associated with work engagement (β = -0.175; p < 0.001) and job satisfaction (β = -0.206; p < 0.001). This study also identified stress and strain factors associated with the use of ICT and assessed institutional support offers as coping mechanisms. The results of this study and its formulated practical implications can serve as a basis for discussing sustainable digitalization strategies in hospitals, taking into consideration technostress and its impact on physicians' burnout, work engagement and job satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), 20459 Hamburg, Germany; (C.B.); (V.H.)
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Tell A, Westenhöfer J, Harth V, Mache S. Stressors, Resources, and Strain Associated with Digitization Processes of Medical Staff Working in Neurosurgical and Vascular Surgical Hospital Wards: A Multimethod Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1988. [PMID: 37510429 PMCID: PMC10379129 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11141988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The digitization of German hospitals is proceeding continuously, leading to the implementation of new digital technologies, such as electronic health records (EHRs) or other technologies, used for the purpose of medical documentation tasks. Even though the replacement of paper documentation through digitized documentation in general promises to come along with plenty of benefits, the daily utilization of technologies might also lead to stresses and strains among the medical staff, eventually possibly leading to the development of different negative work and health-related outcomes. This study, therefore, aims at identifying persisting digitization-associated stressors and resources among medical hospital staff, examining their influences on different work and health-related outcomes, and finally, identifying potential needs for preventive measures. A quantitative study in the form of an online questionnaire survey was conducted among physicians working in the medical field of neuro- and vascular surgery in German hospitals. The study was carried out between June and October 2022 utilizing an online questionnaire based on several standardized scales, such as the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the technostress model, as well as on several scales from the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). The study found medium levels of technostress among the participating physicians (n = 114), as well as low to medium levels of persisting resources. The queried physicians, on average, reported low levels of burnout symptoms, generally described their health status as good, and were mostly satisfied with their job. Despite the prevalence of technostress and the low levels of resources among the surveyed physicians, there is little awareness of the problem of digital stress, and preventive measures have not been widely implemented yet in the clinics, indicating a needs gap and the necessity for the strategic and quality-guided implementation of measures to effectively prevent digital stress from developing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anika Tell
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Seewartenstraße 10, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joachim Westenhöfer
- Department Health Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences (HAW), Ulmenliet 20, 21033 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Seewartenstraße 10, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Seewartenstraße 10, 20459 Hamburg, Germany
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Gerbeth S, Mulder RH. Team behaviors as antecedents for team members' work engagement in interdisciplinary health care teams. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1196154. [PMID: 37469903 PMCID: PMC10352783 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1196154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Due to the increasing complexity and diversity of work tasks in teams, teams need team members who are dedicated and energetic, both characteristics attributed to team members' work engagement. Especially in the domain of health care, high demands at work impact professionals' work engagement. Despite teams being the main work unit in this domain, team research on antecedents of work engagement has been neglected. The present study examines the role of team behaviors such as reflection activities in the relationships between demands at work and team members' work engagement. In doing so, the study aims to extend findings on team behaviors by considering cognitive and work-task related team behaviors as well as team behaviors that focus on emotional aspects. Methods Data of 298 team members of 52 interdisciplinary teams of health and social care organizations which provide care and assistance were collected in this cross-sectional survey study. Relationships between team demands at work, team learning behaviors, dealing with emotions in the team and team members' work engagement were estimated in a mediation model using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results The results indicate that team members' work engagement is positively related to team learning behaviors and dealing with emotions in the team. Cognitive team demands at work such as the complexity of work tasks, were found to relate positively to team members' work engagement, while emotional team demands such as the amount of emotional labor at work had a negative relationship. Team learning behaviors and dealing with emotions in the team were found to mediate the relationship between team demands at work and team members' work engagement. Discussion Our results provide insights into the actual behavior of teams in the domain of health care, both on cognitive and emotional aspects, and the capability of team learning behaviors and dealing with emotions in the team to mediate the relationship between team demands at work and team members' work engagement. The findings encourage future researchers and practitioners to address cognitive, emotional and motivational components in team research to provide a better understanding of team conditions, team behavior and team outcomes.
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Dicks T, Eggert V, Koestner C, Zähme C, Beutel T, Kalo K, Letzel S, Dietz P. Predictors of job satisfaction among teachers in Germany during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: cross-sectional results of a nationwide online questionnaire. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1168647. [PMID: 37303903 PMCID: PMC10250674 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1168647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic teaching was changed several times to distance learning. To consider the associated stresses and challenges for teachers a nationwide cross-sectional study was performed in March 2021 in which N = 31,089 teachers from Germany participated. Methods A multiple linear regression model with stepwise inclusion of thematically sorted variables (sociodemographic, SARS-CoV-2- and work-related variables) was used to identify relevant predictors of job satisfaction. Results The analysis revealed that work-related variables were significant predictors of job satisfaction. In the third regression model, when all variables are included the adjusted R2 was 0.364. Overall, the results showed that, e.g., work predictability (b = 0.097), influence at work (b = 0.118), and meaning of work (b = 0.212) increased job satisfaction. In contrast, increased emotional exhaustion (b = -0.016), feelings of unfair treatment (b = -0.048), and work family conflicts (b = -0.154) deteriorated job satisfaction. Discussion The results indicate that future research should focus especially the work-related topics in more detail and that job satisfaction is a useful concept for analyzing working conditions from a public health point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Dicks
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Viktoria Eggert
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Clemens Koestner
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Carolina Zähme
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Till Beutel
- Institute for Teachers’ Health, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kristin Kalo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Disease Prevention and Rehabilitation, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Letzel
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Institute for Teachers’ Health, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Pavel Dietz
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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Fauser D, Boos N, Dötsch S, Langer C, Kleineke V, Kindel C, Bethge M. [Holistic clarification of the need for intervention at the interface of rehabilitation and occupational medicine when work participation is at risk]. ZENTRALBLATT FUR ARBEITSMEDIZIN, ARBEITSSCHUTZ UND ERGONOMIE 2023; 73:1-13. [PMID: 37361961 PMCID: PMC10144881 DOI: 10.1007/s40664-023-00502-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Introduction For employees whose work participation is at risk, a comprehensive and workplace-oriented diagnosis is required in order to understand the health problems and to support affected persons with individual solutions. We developed a novel diagnostic service to ensure work participation that combines rehabilitative and occupational health medicine. The aim of this feasibility study was to evaluate the implementation and to analyze changes in health and working ability. Methods The observational study (German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00024522) included employees with health restrictions and limited working ability. Participants received an initial consultation from an occupational health physician, a 2-day holistic diagnostics work-up at a rehabilitation center and up to four follow-up consultations. Questionnaire data collected at the initial consultation and at the first and last follow-up consultations included subjective working ability (0-10 points) and general health (0-10). Results Data from 27 participants were analyzed. The participants were 63% female and on average 46 years old (standard deviation, SD = 11.5). From the initial consultation to the final follow-up consultation, participants reported improvement in their general health (difference = 1.52; 95% confidence interval. CI: 0.37-2.67; d = 0.97). Discussion and conclusion The model project GIBI offers low-threshold access to a confidential, comprehensive and workplace-oriented diagnostic service to support work participation. Successful implementation of GIBI requires intensive cooperation between occupational health physicians and rehabilitation centers. To evaluate the effectiveness, a randomized controlled trial (n = 210) with a waiting list control group is currently underway.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Fauser
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Deutschland
| | - Nele Boos
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Deutschland
| | - Saskia Dötsch
- Rehazentrum im Naturpark Aukrug, Tönsheide 10, 24613 Aukrug, Deutschland
| | - Claudia Langer
- RehaCentrum Hamburg, Heidenkampsweg 41, 20097 Hamburg, Deutschland
| | - Vera Kleineke
- Deutsche Rentenversicherung Nord, Ziegelstraße 150, 23556 Lübeck, Deutschland
| | - Claudia Kindel
- Rostocker Zentrum für ambulante Rehabilitation, Wismarsche Str. 32, 18057 Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Matthias Bethge
- Institut für Sozialmedizin und Epidemiologie, Universität zu Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23562 Lübeck, Deutschland
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15
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Ohlendorf D, Schlenke J, Nazzal Y, Dogru F, Karassavidis I, Holzgreve F, Oremek G, Maurer-Grubinger C, Groneberg DA, Wanke EM. Musculoskeletal complaints, postural patterns and psychosocial workplace predictors in police officers from an organizational unit of a German federal state police force - a study protocol. J Occup Med Toxicol 2023; 18:6. [PMID: 37055863 PMCID: PMC10100165 DOI: 10.1186/s12995-023-00372-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Police officers are exposed to a particularly high risk of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and psychosocial stress due to their working conditions. Therefore, the aim of this project will be to assess the occupational physical and mental health of police officers from an organizational unit of the police force of a German federal state. METHODS The aim is to analyze at least 200 active police officers of a state police force in Germany between the age of 18 and 65 years. In a mixed-methods design, a video raster stereography-based measurement of the upper body posture and a modified version of the Nordic Questionnaire (NQ) will be used for investigating their physical health, while the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) and the Operational Police Stress Questionnaire (PSQ-Op) will be used to analyze their mental health. In addition, job-specific psychosocial factors at the workplace will be assessed (using self-designed questions that were previously evaluated in an expert interview). DISCUSSION To date, there is a lack of current questionnaire-based data on the prevalence of MSDs in police officers, or of MSDs associated with injuries or psychosocial workplace factors. Thus, in this study, these MSDs will be correlated with quantitative upper body posture data. If these results prove an increased physical and/or psychosocial stress, then the existing workplace health promotion measures should be analyzed and modified if necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ohlendorf
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Janna Schlenke
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Yunes Nazzal
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Faiz Dogru
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Ioannis Karassavidis
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabian Holzgreve
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Gerhard Oremek
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Christian Maurer-Grubinger
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - David A Groneberg
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Eileen M Wanke
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, Goethe University Frankfurt, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, Building 9A, 60596, 60590, Frankfurt, Germany
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Soja SM, Wegener R, Kille N, Castell S. Merging citizen science with epidemiology: design of a prospective feasibility study of health events and air pollution in Cologne, Germany. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2023; 9:28. [PMID: 36814323 PMCID: PMC9944383 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-023-01250-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Citizen science as an approach to merge society and science is not a new paradigm. Yet it is not common in public health, epidemiology, or medical sciences. SMARAGD (Sensors for Measuring Aerosols and ReActive Gases to Deduce health effects) assesses air pollution at participants' homes or workplaces in Cologne, Germany, as feasibility study with a citizen science approach. Personal exposure to air pollutants is difficult to study, because the distribution of pollutants is heterogeneous, especially in urban areas. Targeted data collection allows to establish connections between air pollutant concentration and the health of the study population. Air pollution is among the most urgent health risks worldwide. Yet links of individualized pollution levels and respiratory infections remain to be validated, which also applies for the feasibility of the citizen science approach for epidemiological studies. METHODS We co-designed a prospective feasibility study with two groups of volunteers from Cologne, Germany. These citizen scientists and researchers determined that low-cost air-quality sensors (hereafter low-cost sensors) were to be mounted at participants' homes/workplaces to acquire stationary data. The advantage of deploying low-cost sensors is the achievable physical proximity to the participants providing health data. Recruitment started in March 2021 and is currently ongoing (as of 09/22). Sensor units specifically developed for this study using commercially available electronic sensor components will measure particulate matter and trace gases such as ozone, nitrogen oxides, and carbon monoxide. Health data are collected using the eResearch system "Prospective Management and Monitoring-App" (PIA). Due to the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, we also focus on COVID-19 as respiratory infection. DISCUSSION Citizen science offers many benefits for science in general but also for epidemiological studies. It provides scientific information to society, enables scientific thinking in critical discourses, can counter anti-scientific ideologies, and takes into account the interests of society. However, it poses many challenges, as it requires extensive resources from researchers and society and can raise concerns regarding data protection and methodological challenges such as selection bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara-Marie Soja
- grid.7490.a0000 0001 2238 295XDepartment for Epidemiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstr. 7, Brunswick, Lower Saxony 38124 Germany
| | - Robert Wegener
- grid.8385.60000 0001 2297 375XForschungszentrum Jülich, Institute for Energy and Climate Research, IEK-8: Troposphere, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia 52428 Germany
| | - Natalie Kille
- grid.8385.60000 0001 2297 375XForschungszentrum Jülich, Institute for Energy and Climate Research, IEK-8: Troposphere, Wilhelm-Johnen-Straße, Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia 52428 Germany
| | - Stefanie Castell
- Department for Epidemiology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Inhoffenstr. 7, Brunswick, Lower Saxony, 38124, Germany. .,German Centre for Infection Research (DZIF), Inhoffenstr. 7, Brunswick, Lower Saxony, 38124, Germany.
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Brucks A, Lang A, Blank D, Lincke HJ, Riedl L, Siafis S, Brieger P, Hamann J. How do employees currently admitted to acute psychiatric inpatient units rate their psychosocial working conditions with the COPSOQ (Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire). Int J Soc Psychiatry 2023:207640221143914. [PMID: 36591697 DOI: 10.1177/00207640221143914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years it could be shown that psychosocial working conditions and mental health of employees are closely correlated. One well-established instrument to measure psychosocial stress at work is the COPSOQ (Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, German Standard Version). It is an 84 item self-rating instrument addressing several domains of psychosocial working conditions and is generally used for risk assessments in companies. AIMS To examine associations between COPSOQ ratings with clinical features and symptoms of employees who currently suffer from an episode of a mental illness requiring inpatient treatment. METHOD For 265 inpatients with mental disorders who participated in a cluster randomized trial (RETURN-study) COPSOQ-data were available as part of the baseline data acquisition. These data were compared with the German COPSOQ validation sample of the Freiburg research center for occupational sciences (FFAW; approximately 250,000 participants). For subdomains of the COPSOQ that showed major and significant differences between the two samples regression analyses were done to predict COPSOQ scores within the RETURN-sample. RESULTS Psychiatric inpatients did not assess their working conditions significantly different compared to the population based FFAW sample. However, with regard to the effects of working conditions (general health, burnout, presenteeism, and intention to leave the job) there were major differences between the two samples with the clinical sample expressing more negative views. In the RETURN sample these were predicted by a greater expression of depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS The linkage between work and mental wellbeing is complex. Mental illness is not necessarily a result of poor working conditions, while good working conditions may not in every case prevent symptoms of bad health, even if such associations exist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Brucks
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, Germany
| | - Anne Lang
- Kbo-Isar-Amper-Klinikum Region München, Germany
| | | | - Hans-Joachim Lincke
- Freiburger Forschungsstelle für Arbeitswissenschaften GmbH, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Lina Riedl
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, Germany
| | - Spyridon Siafis
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, Germany
| | | | - Johannes Hamann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, Germany
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Koestner C, Eggert V, Dicks T, Beutel T, Kalo K, Zähme C, Letzel S, Dietz P. Implementation of occupational safety and health measures at German schools during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic-cross-sectional results from 31,089 teachers. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1097371. [PMID: 36926169 PMCID: PMC10011118 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1097371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic exacerbated existing health-related challenges in schools and created new ones. Under pandemic conditions, health risks increased, and with them the requirements for occupational safety and health (OSH) measures. The aim of the study was (a) to examine the status quo of OSH measures in German schools, (b) to analyze whether the implementation of OSH measures was associated with preferable outcomes and (c) to identify predictors for the implementation of OSH measures. Methods A nationwide cross-sectional online survey was conducted among teachers at all school types in Germany in March 2021. Data on the implementation of OSH measures (risk assessments, infection protection instructions and instructions on occupational safety), associated health-related parameters (e.g., somatic symptoms, PHQ-15) and predictor variables (e.g., gender, age or federal states) were assessed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance and multiple linear regression analysis. Results Less than 10% of surveyed teachers (N = 31,089) reported that their schools met legal requirements for occupational safety and health measures. Beneficial associations became apparent where more measures were implemented, e.g., significantly better somatic and mental health. Predictors for the implementation of OSH measures were found, especially on a systemic level (e.g., federal states schools were located in). Conclusions Our study can serve as a basis for future studies. It provides a status quo regarding the implementation of, associations with and predictors for OSH measures in German schools. Our results are best understood as evidence-based arguments to encourage political decision makers to improve the implementation of OSH measures in German schools and thereby foster teachers' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemens Koestner
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Viktoria Eggert
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Theresa Dicks
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Till Beutel
- Institute for Teachers' Health, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Kristin Kalo
- Department of Sports Medicine, Disease Prevention and Rehabilitation, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Carolina Zähme
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Stephan Letzel
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany.,Institute for Teachers' Health, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Pavel Dietz
- Institute of Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Medical Center of the University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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19
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Kraushaar J, Bohnet-Joschko S. Smartphone Use and Security Challenges in Hospitals: A Survey among Resident Physicians in Germany. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:16546. [PMID: 36554426 PMCID: PMC9779689 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192416546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Although mobile devices support physicians in a variety of ways in everyday clinical practice, the use of (personal) mobile devices poses potential risks for information security, data protection, and patient safety in hospitals. We used a cross-sectional survey-based study design to assess the current state of smartphone use among resident physicians in hospitals and to investigate the relationships between working conditions, current smartphone usage patterns, and security-related behavior. In total, data from 343 participating physicians could be analyzed. A large majority (98.3%) used their smartphones during clinical practice. Of the respondents who used a smartphone during clinical practice, only 4.5% were provided with a smartphone by their employer. Approximately three-quarters of the respondents who used their smartphones for professional communication never/almost never used dedicated GDPR-compliant messenger services. Using a hierarchical regression model, we found a significant effect of the organizational resources Social Support (Supervisor) and Information Security-related Communication on security-related behavior during the selection of medical apps (App Selection). Smartphones are an important part of digital support for physicians in everyday clinical practice. To minimize the risks of use, technical and organizational measures should be taken by the hospital management, resulting, for example, in a Bring-Your-Own-Device (BYOD) initiative.
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Leadership program with skills training for general practitioners was highly accepted without improving job satisfaction: the cluster randomized IMPROVEjob study. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17869. [PMID: 36284216 PMCID: PMC9595077 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22357-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Leadership has become an increasingly important issue in medicine as leadership skills, job satisfaction and patient outcomes correlate positively. Various leadership training and physician psychological well-being programmes have been developed internationally, yet no standard is established in primary care. The IMPROVEjob leadership program was developed to improve job satisfaction among German general practitioners and practice personnel. Its acceptance and effectiveness were evaluated. The IMPROVEjob intervention is a participatory, interdisciplinary and multimodal leadership intervention that targets leadership, workflows and communication in general practices using three elements: (1) two leadership workshops with skills training; (2) a toolbox with printed and online material, and (3) a 9-month implementation phase supported by facilitators. A cluster-randomised trial with a waiting-list control evaluated the effectiveness on the primary outcome job satisfaction assessed by the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (range 0-100). A mixed-methods approach with questionnaires and participant interviews evaluated the acceptance of the intervention and factors influencing the implementation of intervention content. Statistical analyses respected the clustered data structure. The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated intervention adjustments: online instead of on-site workshops, online material instead of facilitator practice visits. Overall, 52 of 60 practices completed the study, with altogether 70 practice leaders, 16 employed physicians, and 182 practice assistants. According to an intention-to-treat analysis, job satisfaction decreased between baseline and follow-up (not significantly) in the total study population and in both study arms, while the subgroup of practice leaders showed a non-significant increase. A mixed multilevel regression model showed no effect of the intervention on job satisfaction (b = - 0.36, p > 0.86), which was influenced significantly by a greater sense of community (b = 0.14, p < 0.05). The acceptance of the IMPROVEjob workshops was high, especially among practice leaders compared to assistants (1 = best to 5 = worst): skills training 1.78 vs. 2.46, discussions within the practice team 1.87 vs. 2.28, group discussions 1.96 vs. 2.21. The process evaluation revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic complicated change processes and delayed the implementation of intervention content in practice routines. The workshops within the participatory IMPROVEjob intervention were rated very positively but the multimodal intervention did not improve job satisfaction 9 months into the pandemic. Qualitative data showed an impairment of implementation processes by the unforeseeable COVID pandemic.Trial registration Registration number: DRKS00012677 on 16/10/2019.
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Rohwer E, Velasco Garrido M, Herold R, Preisser AM, Terschüren C, Harth V, Mache S. Police officers' work-life balance, job satisfaction and quality of life: longitudinal effects after changing the shift schedule. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063302. [PMID: 36127115 PMCID: PMC9490605 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate mental health-related outcomes of police officers 5.5 years after implementing a new alternating shift schedule which was supposed to improve their health and work-life balance. DESIGN Pre-post study design with a baseline survey at the beginning of the piloting of the new shift schedule in 2015 and another survey 5.5 years later in 2020. SETTING Police departments of a German metropolitan police force piloting the new shift schedule. PARTICIPANTS 116 shift-working police officers out of a population of 1673 police officers at the follow-up date. INTERVENTIONS New shift schedule based on occupational health recommendations. OUTCOMES MEASURES Work-life balance, job satisfaction and quality of life. METHODS Mixed analyses of variances were used to test the hypotheses of within-subject and between-subject differences regarding time and gender. RESULTS We found partly significant differences between the baseline and follow-up survey for work-life balance (F(1, 114) = 6.168, p=0.014, ηp² = 0.051), job satisfaction (F(1, 114) = 9.921, p=0.002, ηp² = 0.080) and quality of life (F(1, 114) = 0.593, p=0.443, ηp² = 0.005). Neither significant differences between male and female police officers nor interaction effects of time and gender were found. CONCLUSION An increase was found for each of the three outcomes 5.5 years after implementing the new shift schedule. The results contribute to the current state of research on mental health-related outcomes of working conditions in shift work. On this basis, recommendations for designing shift schedules can be deduced to promote mental health and job satisfaction for employees in shift work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Rohwer
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marcial Velasco Garrido
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Robert Herold
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexandra Marita Preisser
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Terschüren
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Kordsmeyer AC, Efimov I, Harth V, Mache S. Job demands and resources related to burn-out symptoms and work engagement in supervisors working with people with severe disabilities in social firms: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063118. [PMID: 36691179 PMCID: PMC9454070 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyse working conditions, work and health-related outcomes of supervisors working with people with severe disabilities in social firms. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. SETTING Social firms who employ between 30% and 50% of people with different types of disabilities on the general labour market. PARTICIPANTS Supervisors of social firms in Germany. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES Descriptive, bivariate and multivariate analysis was used to analyse relations between job demands (quantitative and emotional demands), job resources (meaning of work, perceived organisational support and influence at work), personal resources (resilience) and burn-out symptoms as well as work engagement. Validated scales, for example, from the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire were applied. RESULTS 124 supervisors of social firms in Germany (59.7% were male and 39.5% female) participated within a cross-sectional quantitative online survey. Multiple hierarchical regression analysis indicated an association of quantitative job demands (β=0.236, p<0.05) and perceived organisational support (β=-0.217, p<0.05) and burn-out symptoms of supervisors in social firms. Meaning of work (β=0.326, p<0.001) and perceived organisational support (β=0.245, p<0.05) were significantly associated with work engagement. CONCLUSIONS Our study specified main job demands and resources for supervisors in German social firms and their impact on both burn-out symptoms and work engagement. When designing measures for workplace health promotion in social firms, especially supervisors' quantitative job demands need to be reduced and perceived organisational support strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann-Christin Kordsmeyer
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ilona Efimov
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Volker Harth
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Mache
- Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine (ZfAM), University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
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Bodendieck E, Jung FU, Luppa M, Riedel-Heller SG. Burnout and work-privacy conflict - are there differences between full-time and part-time physicians? BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1082. [PMID: 36002851 PMCID: PMC9404597 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08471-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Changes in everyday work with regard to working time models have reached the medical profession. The number of physicians working part-time is steadily increasing. At the same time, however, the population's need for care is also rising. This can reinforce the impending shortage of doctors in the future. The aim was to investigate differences in work-privacy conflict and burnout among physicians working full-time or part-time. Method The present study includes data from a baseline survey of the long-term study of physicians with different medical backgrounds. The analysis focused on a sub-sample of 598 physicians (not self-employed). The two main outcomes under investigation—burnout and work-privacy conflict—were measured using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory adapted for health care professionals, as well as the associated subscale of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ). Data analyses included descriptive statistics followed by regression models. Results Descriptive analyses show, that 31.8% of physicians are working part-time, whereas 68.2% are working full-time. The part-time subsample is significantly older, and female physicians are more likely to work part-time. With regard to workload and work-privacy conflict, significant differences between part-time and full-time physicians were only observed in terms of work-privacy-conflict. However, regression analysis underline the importance of possible confounding variables (such as medical setting) within the relationship between job size and job-related well-being. Discussion Differences in working hour arrangements (full-time or part-time work) are only accompanied by less work-privacy conflict. No differences with regard to burnout (patient-related, work-related or personal) could be obtained. Rather, the data suggests that other job-related variables may play a role and should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bodendieck
- General Practice, Dresdner Straße 34a, 04808, Wurzen, Germany
| | - F U Jung
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Ph.-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - M Luppa
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Ph.-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - S G Riedel-Heller
- Institute of Social Medicine, Occupational Health and Public Health, Medical Faculty, University of Leipzig, Ph.-Rosenthal-Str. 55, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
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Schulze S, Merz S, Thier A, Tallarek M, König F, Uhlenbrock G, Nübling M, Lincke HJ, Rapp MA, Spallek J, Holmberg C. Psychosocial burden in nurses working in nursing homes during the Covid-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study with quantitative and qualitative data. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:949. [PMID: 35883124 PMCID: PMC9315075 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08333-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Covid-19 pandemic led to increased work-related strain and psychosocial burden in nurses worldwide, resulting in high prevalences of mental health problems. Nurses in long-term care facilities seem to be especially affected by the pandemic. Nevertheless, there are few findings indicating possible positive changes for health care workers. Therefore, we investigated which psychosocial burdens and potential positive aspects nurses working in long-term care facilities experience during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a mixed-methods study among nurses and nursing assistants working in nursing homes in Germany. The survey contained the third German version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ III). Using Welch's t-tests, we compared the COPSOQ results of our sample against a pre-pandemic reference group of geriatric nurses from Germany. Additionally, we conducted semi-structured interviews with geriatric nurses with a special focus on psychosocial stress, to reach a deeper understanding of their experiences on work-related changes and burdens during the pandemic. Data were analysed using thematic coding (Braun and Clarke). RESULTS Our survey sample (n = 177) differed significantly from the pre-pandemic reference group in 14 out of 31 COPSOQ scales. Almost all of these differences indicated negative changes. Our sample scored significantly worse regarding the scales 'quantitative demands', 'hiding emotions', 'work-privacy conflicts', 'role conflicts', 'quality of leadership', 'support at work', 'recognition', 'physical demands', 'intention to leave profession', 'burnout', 'presenteeism' and 'inability to relax'. The interviews (n = 15) revealed six main themes related to nurses' psychosocial stress: 'overall working conditions', 'concern for residents', 'management of relatives', 'inability to provide terminal care', 'tensions between being infected and infecting others' and 'technicisation of care'. 'Enhanced community cohesion' (interviews), 'meaning of work' and 'quantity of social relations' (COPSOQ III) were identified as positive effects of the pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Results clearly illustrate an aggravation of geriatric nurses' situation and psychosocial burden and only few positive changes due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Pre-existing hardships seem to have further deteriorated and new stressors added to nurses' strain. The perceived erosion of care, due to an overemphasis of the technical in relation to the social and emotional dimensions of care, seems to be especially burdensome to geriatric nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Schulze
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Sibille Merz
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Anne Thier
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Marie Tallarek
- Department of Public Health, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany
| | - Franziska König
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Greta Uhlenbrock
- Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Matthias Nübling
- Freiburg Research Centre for Occupational Sciences (FFAW), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Lincke
- Freiburg Research Centre for Occupational Sciences (FFAW), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Michael A Rapp
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.,Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Jacob Spallek
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany.,Department of Public Health, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Senftenberg, Germany.,Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus -Senftenberg, Senfenberg, Germany
| | - Christine Holmberg
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany. .,Institute of Social Medicine and Epidemiology, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany. .,Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany.
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Peter KA, Golz C, Bürgin RA, Nübling M, Voirol C, Zürcher SJ, Hahn S. Assessing the psychosocial work environment in the health care setting: translation and psychometric testing of the French and Italian Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaires (COPSOQ) in a large sample of health professionals in Switzerland. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:608. [PMID: 35524327 PMCID: PMC9074249 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07924-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Measuring work-related stress in a reliable way is important in the development of appropriate prevention and intervention strategies. Especially in multilingual studies the use of comparable and reliable instruments is crucial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to translate selected scales and single items from the German version of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) into French and Italian and psychometrically test them in a sample of health professionals. Methods This study used cross-sectional data from health professionals at 163 randomised selected health organisations in Switzerland. Selected COPSOQ items/scales were backwards- and forwards- translated and cross-culturally adapted from German to French and Italian. Reliability was assessed with Cronbach alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients, construct validity with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling as well as comparative fit index. Results Responses from 12,754 health professionals were included in the analysis. Of the overall 24 scales, 20 in the German version, 19 in the French version and 17 in the Italian version attained sufficient internal consistency with a threshold of 0.7 for Cronbach’s alpha. Predominantly high factor loadings on scale level are reported (> 0.35), as well as good and satisfactory fit values with RMSEA below 0.1, SRMR below 0.08 and CFI above 0.95. For 10 out of 15 scales, the test for factor invariance revealed a significant difference regarding the psychological constructs of the scales across the language versions. Conclusions The psychometric properties verify the underlying theoretical model of the COPSOQ questionnaire, which is to some extent comparable across the three language versions. Of the 10 scales with significant factor variance, four showed large differences, implying that revision is needed for better comparability. Potential cultural issues as well as regional differences may have led to the factor variance and the different reliability scores per scale across language versions. One known influencing factor for regional differences is culture, which should be considered in scale development. Moreover, emerging topics such as digitization should be considered in further development of the questionnaire. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07924-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Anne Peter
- Department of Applied Research & Development in Nursing, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Murtenstrasse 10, 3008, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Christoph Golz
- Department of Applied Research & Development in Nursing, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Murtenstrasse 10, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Reto Arthur Bürgin
- Department of Applied Research & Development in Nursing, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Murtenstrasse 10, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matthias Nübling
- Freiburg Research Centre for Occupational Sciences, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christian Voirol
- Haute Ecole Arc Santé, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Neuchatel, Switzerland
| | - Simeon Joel Zürcher
- Department of Applied Research & Development in Nursing, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Murtenstrasse 10, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Hahn
- Department of Applied Research & Development in Nursing, Bern University of Applied Sciences, Murtenstrasse 10, 3008, Bern, Switzerland
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Higher Work-Privacy Conflict and Lower Job Satisfaction in GP Leaders and Practice Assistants Working Full-Time Compared to Part-Time: Results of the IMPROVE job Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052618. [PMID: 35270317 PMCID: PMC8910119 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Work-privacy conflict (WPC) has become an important issue for medical professionals. The cluster-randomized controlled IMPROVEjob study aimed at improving job satisfaction (primary outcome), with additional outcomes such as examining the work-privacy conflict in German general practice personnel. Using baseline data of this study, the relationship between work-privacy conflict and job satisfaction (JS) was analyzed. In addition, factors associated with higher WPC were identified. Methods: At baseline, 366 participants (general practitioners (GPs) in leadership positions, employed general practitioners, and practice assistants) from 60 German practices completed a questionnaire addressing socio-demographic data and job characteristics. Standardized scales from the German version of the COPSOQ III requested data concerning job satisfaction and work-privacy conflict. Both scores range from 0 (lowest) to 100 (highest). Multilevel analysis accounted for the clustered data. Statistical analyses were performed using IBM SPSS and RStudio software, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Job satisfaction was 77.16 (mean value; SD = 14.30) among GPs in leadership positions (n = 84), 79.61 (SD = 12.85) in employed GPs (n = 28), and 72.58 (SD = 14.42) in practice assistants (n = 254). Mean values for the WPC-scale were higher for professionals with more responsibilities: GPs in leadership positions scored highest with 64.03 (SD = 29.96), followed by employed physicians (M = 45.54, SD =30.28), and practice assistants (M = 32.67, SD = 27.41). General practitioners and practice assistants working full-time reported significantly higher work-privacy conflict than those working part-time (p < 0.05). In a multilevel analysis, work-privacy conflict was significantly associated with job satisfaction (p < 0.001). A multiple regression analysis identified working hours, as well as and being a practice owner or an employed physician as factors significantly influencing WPC. Discussion: WPC was high among general practice leaders and practice personnel working full-time. Future interventions to support practice personnel should focus on reducing WPC, as there is good evidence of its effects on job satisfaction.
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