Work Motivation and Organizational Engagement of Professional Nurses in Sawanpracharak Hospital, Nakhonsawan Province

Abstract

         This research aimed to 1) investigate the levels of work motivation and organizational commitment; 2) analyze the relationship between work motivation and organizational commitment; and 3) identify strategic guidelines for enhancing motivation and commitment among professional nurses at Sawanpracharak Hospital, Nakhon Sawan Province. The study utilized a mixed-methods research approach. For the quantitative component, data were collected from 267 professional nurses using a structured questionnaire, with analysis conducted through descriptive statistics and Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient. The qualitative component involved in-depth interviews with seven key informants, followed by thematic content analysis.

           Research Findings:

1. Professional nurses reported a high overall level of work motivation ( =3.65), with job characteristics scoring the highest. However, overall organizational commitment was at a moderate level (  =3.05), while the sense of pride in being part of the organization was relatively low (  =2.50). Policy recommendations should include accelerating man-power allocation to meet standard workloads, developing transparent recognition and benefit systems alongside professional advancement, promoting two-way communication to elevate the hospital’s image as a high-level tertiary care center, and providing comprehensive mental health support to ensure sustainable organizational commitment.
2. Work motivation showed a significant positive correlation with organizational commitment (r=.518,p<.001). Notably, "recognition" had the strongest correlation with commitment (r=.490).
3. Strategies to enhance motivation and commitment should include granting autonomy in decision-making, providing clear career advancement paths, establishing protective policies regarding grievances, and reducing unnecessary workloads.