Association between informal support from occupational health staff outside the workplace and competencies of occupational health nurses

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to clarify the association between informal support from occupational health staff outside the workplace and the competencies of occupational health nurses. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to occupational health nurses in the workplace. Multiple regression analysis was performed; the total score of the competency scale for occupational health nurses was used as the objective variable, the scores of the off-the-job support scale (both total and subscale scores) as the explanatory variable, and basic characteristics and items related to the workplace as the adjustment variables. Results: The analysis was performed on 176 individuals. As a result of multiple regression analysis, the non-standardized regression coefficient (B) for the total off-the-job support for occupational health nurses’ competence was 0.72 (95% confidence interval: 0.32–1.13). For each function, the coefficient for emotional support was 2.11 (0.87–3.26), evaluative support was 1.84 (0.87–2.81), and informational support was 2.07 (0.73–3.41). Conclusions: The results suggest that both the overall and functional classifications of workplace support are related to occupational health nurses’ competencies.