Factors affecting work ability index among polish nurses working in hospitals - A prospective observational survey

Abstract

Aims: To assess the ability to work of Polish nurses by age groups.

Background: The ability to work is widely discussed in the literature in the context of nurses' productivity; thus, it is necessary to identify the ability to work when facing an increasing demand for services.

Methods: The observational study involved 349 professionally active nurses aged 46.9 ± 9.7 years, with a length of service of 23.5 ± 9.6 years. The Work Ability Index (WAI) was used to assess the nurses' ability to work.

Results: The ability to work decreases with age (r_s = -0.324, p < .000) and with seniority (r_s = -0.257; p < .000). Nurses with higher education presented higher Work Ability Index scores. Also, the age (B = -0.25, p < .001), work seniority (B = -0.19, p < .001) and education (masters' degree: B = 1.41, p = .012; ref. secondary) affect work ability.

Conclusions: The ageing process and seniority of nurses negatively affect their ability to work. A lack of programmes to maintain physical condition for nurses can result in a shortage of staff.

Implications for nursing management: Programmes can be developed to create or improve healthy working environments to increase productivity.

Keywords: nurse practitioners; occupational health; public health; quality of care; workplace ergonomics.