Structural Equation Modeling on Health Status in Hospital Nurses: Based on the Theory of Salutogenesis With Bio Behavioral Approach

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship among concepts of the salutogenic model - sense of coherence, occupational stress, and health status in clinical nurses. METHODS: Participants were recruited from a hospital in Seoul using a stratified random sampling. A total of 349 nurses participated in the study and data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The structural equation model was used to assess the relationships among the variables. RESULTS: The results of the study showed that occupational stress and health behavior were significant factors, directly explaining the health status of nurses. Factors explaining occupational stress were: sense of coherence, and social support. Sense of coherence showed higher effects on occupational stress than those of social support. Sense of coherence and the work conditions (work experience and shift work) of nurses had a significant and direct effect on health behavior. Sense of coherence and social support had a significant and indirect effect on health status through occupational stress and health behavior. CONCLUSION: Strategies to enhance sense of coherence and social support are necessary for successful health promotion programs for nurses.