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Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery

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01-02-2013 | Original Article

Surgeons’ work ability and performance in surgical care: relations between organisational predictors, work engagement and work ability

Authors: Stefanie Mache, Gerhard Danzer, Burghard F. Klapp, David A. Groneberg

Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery | Issue 2/2013

Abstract

Background

The aim of this study was to examine relations and influences between work-related factors, personal resources, work engagement and work ability of surgeons working in German hospitals.

Methods

The study was conducted as a cross-sectional survey investigation. We used the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire and the Work Ability Index to evaluate surgeons’ work engagement, working conditions and work ability. Bivariate analyses and a stepwise regression analysis were performed.

Results

Surgeons reported a moderate work ability and work engagement. The results indicated significant associations between surgeons’ sources of work engagement, work ability and work-related factors (e.g. job resources). Significant differences regarding these variables were also detected between males and females and the various age groups.

Conclusion

The study results reflect the positive effect of supportive working conditions and work engagement on the preservation of work ability, indicating their importance in promoting surgeons’ work ability. Due to the elderly population and the continuing development of health care in Germany, the demand for surgeons increases. These circumstances give reasons for a strong need to preserve and restore surgeons’ work ability. New strategies for training and improving the capacity and performance of surgeons are necessary.

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Title: Surgeons’ work ability and performance in surgical care: relations between organisational predictors, work engagement and work ability
Authors: Stefanie Mache
Gerhard Danzer
Burghard F. Klapp
David A. Groneberg
Publication date: 01-02-2013
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery / Issue 2/2013
Print ISSN: 1435-2443
Electronic ISSN: 1435-2451
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00423-012-1044-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Surgeons’ work ability and performance in surgical care: relations between organisational predictors, work engagement and work ability

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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