Job Crafting in Nursing: A Conceptual Analysis for Theoretical Advancements in Nursing Practice

Abstract

Aim: To delineate a precise definition of job crafting within the nursing profession to deepen comprehension and stimulate progress in clinical practice and scholarly investigation. Background: In the context of contemporary workplaces, job crafting is recognized as a multifaceted strategy for aligning employee roles with their capabilities and preferences. Nevertheless, its application in nursing, a field marked by high stress and complex demands, remains underexplored and lacks tailored assessment tools. Method: We used Walker and Avant’s systematic concept analysis method, which encompasses eight distinct steps. An exhaustive search for relevant English-language literature was performed across various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Wiley, CINAHL, and Scopus. Results: Our review of 67 selected studies revealed the following defining attributes of job crafting in nursing: (1) proactive challenge engagement; (2) experience-informed and/or innovative behavior; (3) task, cognitive, and/or relational adjustments; and (4) demand–resource balance achievement. Antecedents were identified as intrinsic personal attributes and extrinsic organizational and societal influences. Conversely, while job crafting predominantly yielded positive outcomes, it could also sometimes result in adverse effects. Conclusion: Through rigorous concept analysis, we established a well-defined understanding of job crafting in nursing, laying a solid conceptual foundation for future advancements in clinical applications and research endeavors. Implications for Nursing Management: In light of this lucid concept, nursing managers can better comprehend the work behaviors and mechanisms of nurses. Accordingly, they can then develop tailored assessment tools to evaluate nurses’ job crafting and devise appropriate strategies to facilitate it.