Perfectionistic Work Style and a Sense of Loss of Control as Elements of Occupational Burden Among ICU Nurses
Perfectionistic Work Style and a Sense of Loss of Control as Elements of Occupational Burden Among ICU Nurses

Summary/Abstract: Introduction: The work of nurses in intensive care units is associated with a high level of psychological and organizational burden. A demanding work environment may influence professional functioning, including the intensity of perfectionism and the sense of loss of control over performed duties. The aim of the study was to assess the perfectionistic work style and sense of loss of control as components of occupational burden among ICU nurses, as well as to analyze the relationships between KONOP questionnaire results and age and length of service. Material and methods: The study was conducted among 162 nurses employed in anesthesiology and intensive care units. An original sociodemographic questionnaire and the standardized KONOP questionnaire were used, including the following scales: Loss of Control over Work (UKP), Perfectionistic Work Style (PSP), General Views on Work (OPP), and Perceived Organizational Oppressiveness (SOO). Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, Kruskal–Wallis/ANOVA tests, and Spearman correlations (p < 0.05). Results: The highest values were obtained on the Perfectionistic Work Style scale (M = 71.22), indicating its high intensity in the studied group. Loss of control over work reached a moderate level (M = 38.39), similar to general views on work (M = 52.26). Perceived organizational oppressiveness was low (M = 29.62); however, the reliability of this scale was very low (α = 0.16). Age and length of service significantly differentiated most analyzed scales — younger age and shorter work experience were associated with higher levels of perfectionism and a greater sense of loss of control. Conclusions: ICU nursing staff are characterized by a high level of perfectionistic work style and a moderate level of loss of control over work. Age and professional experience significantly influence the perception of occupational burden, highlighting the importance of adaptive support for younger and less experienced nurses.

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