The relationship of empowerment and selected personality characteristics to nursing job satisfaction

Purpose: This study reports on a secondary data analysis undertaken to better understand the determinants of job satisfaction for hospital nurses. Both workplace and personal factors can contribute to job satisfaction. Theoretical Framework: Kanter's theory of structural empowerment and Spreitzer's theory of psychological empowerment explain logical outcomes of managerial efforts to create structural conditions of empowerment. Selected personal attributes were also considered. Method and Sample: Instruments used were 1) Conditions for Work Effectiveness Questionnaire; 2) psychological empowerment tool; 3) a mastery scale; 4) an achievement scale; and 5) a job satisfaction scale. The sample of 347 nurses (58% response rate) came from all specialty areas. Results: Structural and psychological empowerment predicted 38% of the variance in job satisfaction. Achievement and mastery needs were not significant. Other personal attributes can be found in future research to improve job satisfaction. Conclusions: Through careful manipulation of the hospital environment, both structural and psychological empowerment can be increased, resulting in greater job and patient satisfaction and, ultimately, improved patient outcomes.