Factors related to good group performance in nursing

• Published in: International journal of industrial ergonomics Vol. 22; no. 4; pp. 327 - 331
• Main Authors: Wickström, Gustav, Helelä-Hannus, Leena, Joki, Marjut, Laine, Marjukka, Pentti, Jaana, Tamminen-Peter, Leena, Soininen, Marjaana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-11-1998
• Subjects: Cooperation; Individual capacity; Nursing; Occupational load; Social support; Occupational load; Individual capacity; Nursing; Cooperation; Social support
• ISSN: 0169-8141; 1872-8219
• DOI: 10.1016/S0169-8141(97)00085-1

In nursing, the strain resulting from physical, mental and social work loads depends on both individual work capacity and the performance of the group. The relation between assessments of individual work capacity and assessments of the performance of the ward as a whole was determined on 10 wards, on the basis of questionnaire answers concerning personal physical and mental performance, as well as effectiveness, flexibility, division of tasks and cooperation of all the nursing staff. No relation between average individual performance and group performance was found. Group performance ratings were closely associated with management atmosphere and supervisor support. The opinions of the auxiliary nurses were mostly decisive for the general opinion of the staff.
Relevance to industry
Individual employees are increasingly dependent on cooperation with fellow employees to perform well in their job. Both in the service sector and in industry, any limitations to cooperation puts strain on the individual employee and may over time result in a lower level of health and performance.