Study on Current Status and Influencing Factors of Work Engagement Among Specialist Nurses in Maternal and Child Health Care Institutions

Abstract Objective: To explore the potential profiles and influencing factors of work engagement among specialist nurses in maternal and child health institutions, providing evidence to enhance this nursing group's work engagement levels. Methods: Convenience sampling was employed between November 2024 and January 2025, recruiting 344 specialist nurses from 17 tertiary maternal and child health institutions within the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. A questionnaire comprising a general information form, the Specialist Nurse Work Engagement Scale, the Career Plateau Scale, and the Professional Pride Scale was administered. Latent profile analysis classified work engagement levels among these nurses, with univariate analysis and binary logistic regression examining factors influencing distinct profiles. Results: Two latent profiles emerged: low work engagement-low work recognition (41.9%) and high work engagement-high work agency (58.1%). Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that age, weekly night shift frequency, career plateau, and professional pride significantly influenced work engagement profiles (all P < 0.05). Conclusion: Heterogeneity exists in the work engagement levels of specialist nurses within maternal and child health institutions. Nursing managers should implement targeted strategies based on the distinct work engagement characteristics of these nurses, prioritising those with low seniority, high weekly night shift counts, career plateau experiences, and low professional pride. This approach aims to enhance work engagement among specialist nurses, thereby safeguarding the quality of nursing services. Trial registration: not applicable.