Working conditions and health status of young physicians and nurses in German hospitals

Profound transformations in the German healthcare system lead to intense working conditions for young employees in inpatient care. Published data suggest associated health risks. This investigation aims to assess current stress factors, their consequences, and subjective measures for improvement. Du...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Bundesgesundheitsblatt, Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz Gesundheitsforschung, Gesundheitsschutz, 2020-01, Vol.63 (1), p.113-121
Main Authors: Raspe, Matthias, Koch, Peter, Zilezinski, Max, Schulte, Kevin, Bitzinger, Diane, Gaiser, Ulrike, Hammerschmidt, Andreas, Köhnlein, Ralf, Puppe, Julian, Tress, Florian, Uden, Theodor, Nienhaus, Albert
Format: Article
Language:ger
Subjects:
Adult
Burnout, Professional
Cross-Sectional Studies
Germany
Health Status
Humans
Physicians
Surveys and Questionnaires
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Summary:Profound transformations in the German healthcare system lead to intense working conditions for young employees in inpatient care. Published data suggest associated health risks. This investigation aims to assess current stress factors, their consequences, and subjective measures for improvement. During September 2017, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among physicians and nurses ≤35 years of age and with work experience in inpatient care not exceeding six years. Field access was gained via seven scientific and professional societies. The electronic questionnaire consisted of mainly validated instruments. Regression models included confounders into the final data analysis. Included in the final data analysis were 1060 complete cases. The overall response rate was 13%. Different stress factors (e.g. time-related or psychosocial) were found at high levels. These stress factors were connected to reduced health and higher risk of burnout. Furthermore, they were associated with inferior perceived quality of care. Young physicians claimed less documentation requirements and less intense working conditions. Young nurses demanded fair salary and an appropriate nurse-patient allocation. Today's working conditions in inpatient care are a threat to the health status of young employees. General conditions, which ensure a sustainable healthy and effective working environment, need to be ensured.
ISSN:1437-1588
DOI:10.1007/s00103-019-03057-y