The Effect of Working-hour Characteristics and Health Status of Nurses on Work–life Balance: Using the 5th Korean Working Conditions Survey
10.7586/jkbns.2022.24.4.209
- Author:
Eunjeong CHO
1
;
Jieun JU
;
Booyoung OH
Author Information
1. College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Journal of Korean Biological Nursing Science
2022;24(4):209-218
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to investigate the relationships between the characteristics of nurses’ work schedules, health outcomes, and work–life balance.
Methods:This was a secondary data analysis that included 422 nurses in Korean hospitals. Descriptive analysis, independent sample t-test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to identify the associated factors.
Results:Multiple linear regression analysis showed that work–life balance was lower when atypical work was performed (β = -.14, p = .010). Nurses who did not work overtime showed a higher level of work–life balance than those who worked overtime infrequently (β = -.11, p = .002) or frequently (β = -.28, p < .001). The work–life balance level increased when nurses had better subjective health status (β = .16, p < .001) or higher sleep quality (β = .29, p < .001). It was verified that the work–life balance level was higher for single-person households than for households with two (β = -.18, p = .003), three to four (β = -.16, p = .022), or five or more (β = -.21, p < .001) persons.
Conclusion:This study suggests that government and hospital organizations should provide high-quality care and consideration to nurses who do atypical or overtime work as well as their subjective health status and sleep quality. Further research should focus on the development of a policy that improves the work–life balance of nurses, especially for those who work during atypical hours.
