FACTORS INFLUENCING ATTITUDES OF NURSES TOWARDS PARTICIPATION IN INDUSTRIAL ACTION IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN NANDI COUNTY, KENYA
Abstract
This study explored factors influencing attitudes towards participation in
industrial action of nurses in public hospitals in Nandi County, Kenya. Pertinent
factors such as personal values, professional commitment, service commitment, and
job satisfaction were explored. A cross-sectional survey was done using the
quantitative design where 191 nurses participated in the study. The data analysis was
done using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient, t-
test for independent samples, and one-way analysis of variance. Results show that
nurses have a moderately positive attitude towards participation in industrial action
with an overall value of M=2.5743, SD=0.61609, have moderately positive personal
values with M=3.2887, SD=.49909, have an average professional commitment with
M=3.3303, SD=0.48564, have high service commitment at M=3.6272, SD=0.45130,
and are moderately satisfied with their job at M=3.4993 and SD=0.46256. The level
of professional and service commitment does not influence the nurses’ attitudes
towards participation in industrial action. Nurses who have positive values and high
job satisfaction are less likely to participate in industrial action. Both male and female
nurses have moderately positive attitudes towards participation in industrial action.
The mean attitudes reveal that nurses aged 20 to 30 years have moderately negative
attitudes while nurses aged 31 years and above have moderately positive attitudes
towards participation in industrial action. Nurses who have served for 5 years and
below have moderately negative attitudes while those who have served for 6 years
and above have moderately positive attitudes towards participation in industrial
action. Therefore, imparting sound personal values among nurses and providing a
conducive working environment that fosters job satisfaction for nurses is paramount
in combating industrial action.