Professional quality of life in cardiovascular nurses: differences between cardiology and pediatric cardiology clinic - pilot study
Authors: Kurkiewicz-Sawczak K , Sawczak F , Pelczar-Plachta W , Szubarga A , Cierzniak M , Soloch A , Lompies K , Dudek M , Milewska K , Straburzynska-Migaj E , Kaluzna-Oleksy M , Bobkowski W 
Published: July 2024

Background/Introduction

Nursing can be a rewarding profession as it involves helping others. However, it is demanding, particularly for Cardiovascular nurses who may be exposed to stressful situations, patient suffering, and death. Additionally, work-related issues such as shift work, work overload, and excessive bureaucracy can pose challenges. It is necessary to consider that caring for children presents unique challenges compared to caring for adults, which can impact the Professional Quality of Life (ProQoL) and its domains.

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to investigate differences in ProQoL between nurses working in pediatric cardiology and adult cardiology units.

Methods

Nurses working in pediatric cardiology and adult cardiology units were enrolled in the study. The Polish version of the ProQoL 5 questionnaire was collected using a paper form. The specific domains of satisfaction, job burnout, and stress were calculated according to the questionnaire key. Moreover, data on age, additional places of employment and working hours were collected. The study examined the relationship between these factors and ProQoL domain scores using the R-Spearman correlation. Scores from each domain were compared between clinics using U-Mann-Whitney tests and a two-sided Fisher's exact test.

Results

The study involved 13 pediatric cardiology staff: six midwives, six nurses, one paramedic, and 29 adult cardiology staff: 26 nurses, two paramedics and one medical caretaker. No differences were found in any of the ProQoL domains between those working with children and those working with adults: p=0.74 for satisfaction, p=0.90 for burnout and p=0.77 for stress. A trend of lower age was observed among those working in the Paediatric Cardiology Department. The majority of nurses, regardless of ward, reported high or intermediate job satisfaction, as well as low or moderate levels of stress and burnout. Only one person employed in the adult Cardiology department reported a low level of job satisfaction. Older age was associated with higher job satisfaction (R=0.32; p=0.04) and lower levels of burnout (R=-0.31; p=0.048). Additionally, a higher number of working hours per month was associated with burnout (R=0.41; p=0.007). Satisfaction was negatively associated with burnout (R=-0.51; p&lt;0.001) and positively correlated with stress (R=0.35; p=0.04). However, burnout was not associated with stress (p=0.56).

Conclusions

Regardless of the different work specifications in departments, related to working with children or adults, the ProQoL does not differ significantly. Older age may be positively associated with ProQoL. It may be the result of greater work experience. A higher number of working hours per month is associated with burnout, so it is therefore appropriate to emphasize the importance of occupational health and encourage not to overwork. A multicentre study could further define the differences in ProQoL and the influencing factors.