Exploring the Influence of Demographic Factors and Flourishing on Workplace Distractions: A Cross-Country Analysis

Abstract

Objective: To explore the influence of demographic factors and flourishing on workplace distractions in a cross-country analysis of Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in two government hospitals: one in eastern Saudi Arabia and the other in northern Jordan. Data were collected from the nurses using convenience sampling. The required sample size was determined using the G∗Power software, with a target of 242 nurses per country, resulting in 484 participants. Ultimately, the final sample consisted of 437 nurses: 222 from Saudi Arabia and 215 from Jordan. Two online instruments were used to collect data on the distractions and flourishing.

Results: The study found that “using the Internet” and “using the phone” were the most time-consuming distractions among nurses, while “watching TV” was the least time-consuming. There were significant associations between demographics and distractions, with participants from Saudi Arabia having lower distraction scores than participants from Jordan. Younger participants were more distracted than older participants, whereas male participants were more distracted than female participants were. Smokers and individuals with less expertise exhibit higher levels of distraction. Furthermore, degree of education was associated with higher levels of distraction. Nurses in Saudi Arabia experience a much greater loss of productivity due to distractions than their Jordanian counterparts. Regression analysis revealed that experience, “Mental and Physical Health” domain scores, smoking status, and educational level all highly predicted distraction levels among Saudi Arabian and Jordanian nurses, accounting for approximately 9.6% of the differences in distraction.

Conclusion: In this cross-country study on workplace distractions among Saudi and Jordanian nurses, “using the Internet” and “using the phone” emerged as the most time-consuming distractions. Younger age, male sex, smoking, and less experience are associated with higher distraction levels. Additionally, higher education levels were linked to increased distraction. Implementing employee flourishing activities can help reduce distractions and enhance productivity. This study offers valuable insights into improving nurses’ performance and well-being.