Parise LeGal1, Ann Rhéaume2, Jane Mullen3. 1. New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program, Edmundston, New Brunswick, Canada. 2. School of Nursing, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada. 3. Department of Commerce, Ron Joyce Center for Business Studies, Mount Allison University, Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada.
Abstract
AIM: Investigate the impact of psychological job demands and resources on chronic fatigue. BACKGROUND: Nurse fatigue is a serious problem with negative consequences on patient safety and nurse well-being. Excessive job demands can exacerbate nurse fatigue, which may limit the ability of nurses to engage in professional practice. METHODS: This two-wave study was carried out with a self-report questionnaire administered to nurses in eastern Canada (n = 154). Cross-lagged analysis using structural equation modelling was conducted to examine the interactions between psychological job demands, resources and chronic fatigue over time. RESULTS: Results showed that psychological job demands predicted chronic fatigue a year later. Nonetheless, job resources (decision latitude, social support) did not buffer the relationship between psychological job demands and chronic fatigue 1 year later. CONCLUSIONS: Psychological demands have a long-term effect on chronic fatigue, thus interventions to mitigate fatigue are needed. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Nurse managers should be aware of the cumulative effects of chronic fatigue and implement strategies to create a better balance between job demands and resources in the workplace.
AIM: Investigate the impact of psychological job demands and resources on chronic fatigue. BACKGROUND: Nurse fatigue is a serious problem with negative consequences on patient safety and nurse well-being. Excessive job demands can exacerbate nurse fatigue, which may limit the ability of nurses to engage in professional practice. METHODS: This two-wave study was carried out with a self-report questionnaire administered to nurses in eastern Canada (n = 154). Cross-lagged analysis using structural equation modelling was conducted to examine the interactions between psychological job demands, resources and chronic fatigue over time. RESULTS: Results showed that psychological job demands predicted chronic fatigue a year later. Nonetheless, job resources (decision latitude, social support) did not buffer the relationship between psychological job demands and chronic fatigue 1 year later. CONCLUSIONS: Psychological demands have a long-term effect on chronic fatigue, thus interventions to mitigate fatigue are needed. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT: Nurse managers should be aware of the cumulative effects of chronic fatigue and implement strategies to create a better balance between job demands and resources in the workplace.