The influence of learning circumstances and on-the-job opportunities for professional growth on perceived person-environment fit among hospital nurses: A longitudinal study.

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the influence of learning circumstances (learning inside and outside hospitals, and communication about the nursing practice with colleagues) and on-the-job opportunities for professional growth on each dimension of person-environment fit (needs-supplies, demands-abilities, person-organisation and person-group fit) among nurses. It is desirable for each dimension of person-environment fit to be high, as it links to many work-related outcomes. A longitudinal survey using a questionnaire was conducted in February 2019 (Time 1) and October 2019 (Time 2). A simple linear regression analysis and a multiple linear regression analysis were conducted, using data from 324 nurses. The results of the simple regression analysis showed that three variables related to learning circumstances at Time 1 were positively related to each dimension of person-environment fit at Time 2. The multiple regression analysis showed on-the-job opportunities for professional growth at Time 1 related to person-environment fit at Time 2. To achieve high person-environment fit, nurses should be aware of on-the-job opportunities for professional growth. To achieve high person-environment fit, nurse managers should evaluate nurses' abilities and assign them jobs that would help improve their nursing skills.