Cultivating a Culture of Gratitude and Recognition Among Nurses and Staff on a Blood and Marrow Transplantation Unit

Objectives: To measure baseline work gratitude among nurses and staff on a blood and marrow transplantation unit; to evaluate the impact of a positive workplace recognition intervention on work gratitude, sense of belonging and community, and job satisfaction; and to explore the relationships among these variables and job satisfaction.

Sample & Setting: In total, 40 survey responses (preintervention =24, postintervention = 16) were collected from nurses and staff on a blood and marrow transplantation unit at a large academic hospital.

Methods & Variables: A pre- and postintervention survey included a demographic questionnaire and the Work Gratitude Scale. Public-facing digital signage was installed and used to project positive recognition, including expressions of gratitude from patients and staff.

Results: Those with higher job satisfaction and a stronger sense of belonging and community reported higher work gratitude scores. There were no significant changes in job satisfaction, sense of belonging and community, and work gratitude scores.

Implications for Nursing: Creating a positive work environment through gratitude and positive recognition could increase job satisfaction and sense of belonging and community among nurses and staff.