Do nurses’ career competencies act as mediators and predictors between job resources and work engagement in the job demands-resources theory? A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Since nurses have various career options, it is essential for them to possess career competencies which are the knowledge, skills, and abilities for their career self-management. Nurses’ roles have expanded globally due to dynamically changing healthcare settings and advanced specialization fields. In this context, career competencies may help nurses to navigate their careers successfully. However, few studies have investigated the association between career competencies and positive work-related outcomes for nurses. Our study aimed to examine whether nurses’ career competencies act as mediators and predictors between job resources and work engagement in the motivational processes of the job demand-resources theory. We explored whether career competencies and four types of job resources (supervisor support, coworker support, role clarity, and career opportunities) are mutually related and lead to work engagement. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between July and August 2022. Mediation analyses were conducted using structural equation modeling with data from 263 nurses working in hospitals in the Tohoku region of Japan. Results: Career competencies mediated the relationship between the four types of job resources and work engagement. Furthermore, career competencies enhanced work engagement through increased supervisor support and career opportunities. Conclusions: Our results indicate that career competencies are a critical personal resource for enhancing work engagement in the motivational process of the job demand-resources theory. We trust that our insights will contribute to effective nursing management and continuing education.