Designing a Structural Equation Model (SEM) for the Relationship between Quality of Working Life and Job Involvement among Nurses, with the Mediating Role of Job Burnout and Job Identity

IntroductionGiven the issue of nursing shortages globally and in Iran, compounded by new global conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the quality of working life (QWL) among nurses and the factors influencing it have become important issues. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between QWL and job involvement among nurses, considering the mediating role of job burnout and job identity. MethodologyThis study is a cross-sectional analysis conducted in Khorramabad, Lorestan province, Iran. The statistical population comprised nurses employed in Khorramabad hospitals. The sample size was determined using Cochrans formula, and simple random sampling was employed. To assess the variables, the Work-Related Quality of Life Scale (WRQOLS), Maslach Burnout Questionnaire, Haos Professional Identity Questionnaire, and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9) were used. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to examine the relationships between variables, and Smart-PLS software was used for data analysis. ResultsResults showed a significant negative correlation between job involvement, job identity, and QWL with job burnout. The correlation coefficients were -0.910, -0.878, and -0.900, respectively. Additionally, the results indicated that job identity and job burnout mediate the relationship between QWL and job involvement among nurses. ConclusionAccording to the findings of this study, job identity and job burnout have a mediating effect on the relationship between QWL and employee engagement. Therefore, when nursing managers aim to enhance the job engagement of new nurses, they should consider not only QWL but also the aspects of job identity and job burnout. Enhancing QWL can improve psychological empowerment and reduce nurse burnout. Moreover, professional training and improvement of communication skills among nursing staff can assist them in managing job burnout.