Applying a work design model to employee outcomes for aged care nurses

The work attitudes and psychological wellbeing of nurses are important factors impacting on the aged care workforce. Using survey data from 222 aged care nurses, regression analyses tested a range of work environment variables from the job demand-control-support (JDCS) model and organizational justice variables on satisfaction and wellbeing. The JDCS components in the work design model were particularly predictive. The contributions of informational and interpersonal justice, along with the main and interaction effects of supervisor support, highlight the centrality of the supervisor for aged care nurses. Work design variables have utility beyond predicting stress to the key work attitude of job satisfaction for aged care nurses, suggesting further avenues of research for the retention of nurses and improved patient care.