A daily measure of job satisfaction in the operating room – investigating its value and viability

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to explore the value, validity and viability of implementing a daily job satisfaction tool in the operating room (OR) setting.

Sample and setting: A daily one-minute survey was developed and trialled with 269 OR staff members (123 nurses) over a three-week period in one New Zealand hospital.

Method: A feedback and validation survey was then administered to staff one week following the trial.

Results: The trial resulted in 569 tool submissions. A daily average of 71 per cent of participants (69% nurses) reported feeling ‘pretty good’ or ‘great’ about their jobs, with ‘relationships and communication with colleagues’ most influential for both a positive and negative day at work. Findings also supported the validity of the tool and highlighted strengths and areas for improvement.

Conclusion: The results of the study provide initial support for the value and feasibility of implementing a daily job satisfaction measurement tool in the OR setting. A daily satisfaction measure has the potential to be a powerful tool for perioperative nursing managers at all levels enabling active measurement and management of nurse job satisfaction from an interprofessional perspective.