Work

Work Organization and Health Issues in Long-Term Care Centers

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: This qualitative study explored common and divergent perceptions of caregivers and managers regarding occupational health and safety, work organization, and psychosocial concerns in long-term care centers. Both common and differing issues were identified. Both groups agreed on the importance of ergonomic concerns, the high prevalence of stress, and receptiveness to participatory health promotion programs. However, numerous work organization issues and physical and psychosocial workplace hazards were identified by certified nursing assistants but were not mentioned by managers. The results suggest that different perceptions naturally arise from people's varying positions in the occupational hierarchy and their consequent exposures to health and safety hazards. Improved systems of communication that allow frontline workers to express their concerns would make it possible to create solutions to these problems.

Source: Journal of Gerontological Nursing

DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20110106-01

Authors: Yuan Zhang, Marian Flum, Suzanne Nobrega, Lara Blais, Shpend Qamili, Laura Punnett

Institution: University of Massachusetts Lowell

Language: English

Topic: Geriatric Care and Nursing Homes

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: green

Funders: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health