| Abstract [eng] |
Introduction. One of the most critical components of a well-functioning healthcare system is the health of its employees. To ensure the provision of high-quality healthcare services, attention must be paid to the health of the staff. Nurses make up the largest portion of healthcare workers. Given issues such as an aging population and the rapid decline in the number of nurses, this thesis focuses on nurses' health-related behavior and psychological well-being. The aim of the study is to determine the relationship between health-promoting behavior and the psychological well-being of nurses. The study objectives are: to analyze the health-related behavior of nurses, to analyze the psychological well-being of nurses, and to identify the correlations between nurses' health-related behavior and their psychological well-being. Research Methodology and Materials. Since there are 21,000 nurses in Lithuania, a quantitative research method was chosen to digitize and analyze the results and increase the reliability of the study. Two sampling methods were used: random selection and convenience sampling. Five validated questionnaires were used to create the research instrument: the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Nutrition Assessment Questionnaire, the World Health Organization Well-Being Index, the UK Health and Safety Executive Work Stress Questionnaire, and the Stress Coping Questionnaire. The study adhered to the principles of autonomy, anonymity, and confidentiality. Results. Lithuanian nurses have a higher rate of overweight compared to the European and World averages, while the percentage of obese nurses is very similar to the European average. It was found that nurses are more physically active on workdays than on days off, with a significant number rarely exercising or participating in sports. Nurses seldom follow the principles of the Mediterranean diet in their eating habits. Psychological well-being varied among different age groups, with older nurses being calmer, more relaxed, and more energetic. Work stress was often caused by infrequent breaks and pressure to work overtime. The study examined the correlation between nurses' physical activity and their well-being. It was found that the correlation is very weak, and thus, the initial hypothesis is not strongly supported as expected. Conclusions. Nurses do not pay enough attention to health-promoting behavior. Psychological well-being and emotional experiences among nurses are individual processes influenced by various factors, including age. In this case, the correlation between nurses' physical activity and psychological well-being is very weak. Therefore, to thoroughly examine the relationship between nurses' health-related behavior and their psychological well-being, other factors need to be considered in more detail. Recommendations. For healthcare institutions: promoting physical activity and implementing healthy diet practices; Emotional support and stress management tools; Health education and awareness raising; Improving working conditions. For nurses: regular movement; healthy diet; professional support. Keywords: nurses, physical activity, nutrition, psychological well-being, stress. |
