RESUMO
PURPOSE: This study is to investigate the effect of nurse's competency empowerment and boss' job competency recognition on work performance. METHODS: 216 nurses participated for data collection which was conducted from September 1, 2011 to September 10, 2011. The collected data were analyzed with SPSS/WIN 16.0 and with frequency test, ANOVA, Scheffe test and Multiple regression. RESULTS: Firstly, the work performance in accordance with subject's general characteristics was found to be significant in the 50s, graduate school or higher education, Roman Catholic, charge nurse and 21-years or older. Secondly, the correlation among nurse's competency empowerment, boss' competency recognition and work performance was found to be positively related (r=.501~.639, p<.001). Thirdly, competency empowerment was found to be the most effective factor for work performance, followed by boss' competency recognition and career year, and these factors accounted for 63.5%. CONCLUSION: As the results show that the work performance is highly affected by the nurse's competency empowerment, boss' competency recognition level and career level in clinical environment, effective education programs are required to provide an appropriate experience to both entry-level and experienced nurses, as well as to enhance boss' competency empowerment at the same time.