Learning Objective #1: Describe the importance of healthy work environments for nurses and their clients

Learning Objective #2: Describe the development and validation process, underlying assumptions and key concepts of a healthy work environment model for nurses

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Healthy work environments for nurses are defined as practice settings that maximize the health and well-being of the nurse, quality patient outcomes, organizational performance and societal outcomes. A comprehensive model is needed to guide the development, implementation and evaluation of a systematic approach to enhancing the work environments of nurses. The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario and the Office of Nursing Policy (Health Canada) have developed a conceptual model to guide their current work in developing and evaluating work environment best practice guidelines for nurses.

This session will discuss the importance of healthy work environments for nurses and provide an overview of the model. The presentation will outline the process used in the development of the Conceptual Model for Healthy Work Environments for Nurses and how relevant research, and views of experts and practitioners have helped shape it.

The model presents the healthy work environment as a product of the interdependence between individual (micro-system level), organizational (meso-system level) and external (macro-system level) determinants. At each level, physical/structural policy components, cognitive/psycho-socio/cultural components and professional/occupational components are active. The model suggests that the individual's functioning is mediated and influenced by interactions between the individual and his/her environment.

For researchers, administrators and policy makers, this model will clarify factors and outcomes for planned interventions. Use of the model along with the healthy work environment best practice guidelines currently under development will support positive changes in health care organizations that will contribute to healthier work environments for nurses and positive health outcomes for patients.