Assessment of Workplace Pathogens by the Nursing Staff: A Research Study
Purpose: The paper presents the results of an empirical study showing the current assessment of pathogens by nurses at their workplace. It identifies the problem areas in the professional work of the study group, including exposure to pathogens. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study involved a group of 310 persons: nurses employed in various hospitals and medical institutions. The subjects were aged 23-50 years and above and had work experience ranging from 1 year of service to 35 years and above. The study used a diagnostic survey method based on a survey technique using a proprietary survey questionnaire. The research was administered in an online format in 2023. Findings: There are pathogenic factors at nurses’ work including such factors as stress, work overload and biological factors. Regardless of the workplace, the vast majority of nursing staff described their exposure to harmful factors at very high levels. They showed a failure of active involvement and discussion concerning improving working conditions and a lack of conversation about pathogens. Practical implications: The article presents the current knowledge of pathogenic factors in medical facilities and nurses' assessment of these factors. The factors mentioned in the article hinder the professional activity of medical personnel and may lead to the occurrence of diseases. The presented results from our own research may serve some initiative in initiating activity among this professional group, including a dialogue between the medical staff and management in the reduction of the listed factors. Furthermore, it may prompt a discussion on the problems diagnosed in the research. The lack of active involvement of nurses in improving working conditions should change. Originality/Value: The authors present original research that has shown the threat from pathogenic factors in the workplace of medical staff, which significantly hinders professional activity and often causes illnesses and even results in a career change. The presentation of this topic is timely in view of the society expecting high quality medical services. The research conducted provides a basis for outlining new scientific challenges in nursing.