Work engagement in Magnet(®)-designated hospitals: Exploring social and institutional demographics of RNs to optimize improvement efforts.

Objective: This study analyzed and evaluated relationships between work engagement (WE) and social/institutional demographic variables of RNs in Magnet(®)-designated hospitals.

Background: Organizational structures of Magnet-designated hospitals are recognized to promote engagement of RNs. Because little is known about relationships between WE and the social/institutional demographics of nurses, this study focused on age (generation), gender, education, shift, hours worked per week, percentage of time in direct patient care, and nursing unit.

Methods: A convenience sample of hospital RNs (n = 220) completed 2 surveys to measure WE and demographic variables in this descriptive correlational study.

Results: Shift was significantly related to RN engagement; however, age, gender, education, hours worked per week, percentage of time in direct patient care, and nursing unit were not.

Conclusions: This study provides empirical evidence about the relationships between WE and social/institutional characteristics of RNs. The findings are relevant to patients, nurses, nurse leaders, and organizations.