Generational Effect on Nurses’ Work Values, Engagement, and Satisfaction in an Acute Hospital

Abstract

Abstract Background: The present nursing workforce comprises four generational of nurses working side-by–side. While such generation blend adds invaluable diversity to the workforce, it also brings added complexity. The study aimed to describe and summarise work values and attitudes of four nursing generations, namely Baby boomers, Generation X, Y and Z. Method: A cross-sectional questionnaire study was adopted. A total of 778 nurses from an acute hospital in Singapore had completed the online questionnaire. The Work Value and Attitude scale measuring seven constructs (Work Centrality, Non-compliance, Technology Challenge, Work life balance, leadership, Power, and Recognition) was employed for data collection. Results: The Cronbach’s alpha was 0.714 for the overall instrument. Statistically significant differences amongst the four generations of nurses emerged in the Work Value and Attitude scale in the construct of non-compliance (p=0.007), technology challenge (p=0.027), work-life balance (p<0.001), and recognition (p<0.001). No statistically significant differences noted for the rest of the constructs. Discussion and Conclusion: The findings of this study highlights that differences in work values and attitudes exist amongst nurses of different generations. Generation-X are less likely to challenge the conventional norm and supervisors. Generation Y and Z are the most tech-savvy generations and can adapt quicker to new technology. There is also greater emphasis for work-life balance as the generation gets younger. Generation Y and Z nurses perceived that younger nurses do not get the due respect and recognition form their colleagues. Acknowledging the generational differences in work values and attitude can facilitate nursing management to tailor strategies to improve individual and organisation performance while creating a work environment that enhance intergeneration harmony and teamwork.