Improving Emergency Department Staff Satisfaction Through Lean Thinking: Evidence From a Mixed Study

Aims: To compare job satisfaction among emergency department staff before and after the implementation of Lean Thinking and to explore staff experiences regarding this methodology, identifying associated satisfaction factors. Background: Lean Thinking, originally developed in the automotive industry...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Pastor-Puigdomènech, Andrea, Sánchez Sánchez, Miguel, Font Cabrera, Cristina, Fabrellas i Padrès, Núria, Benito-Aracil, Llúcia, Guix Comellas, Eva Maria
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2026
País:España
Institución:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repositorio:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:dnet:recercat____::983ad51767700a7dcf55bcc5203c5f9a
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/229582
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Infermeria d&apos
urgència
Satisfacció en el treball
Emergency nursing
Job satisfaction
Descripción
Sumario:Aims: To compare job satisfaction among emergency department staff before and after the implementation of Lean Thinking and to explore staff experiences regarding this methodology, identifying associated satisfaction factors. Background: Lean Thinking, originally developed in the automotive industry, is increasingly applied in healthcare to optimise processes and improve patient care. Staff engagement and perceptions are key determinants of successful implementation. Methods: A mixed-methods pre–post design was conducted. The Font-Roja job satisfaction questionnaire was administered preintervention and 1 year postimplementation, and semistructured interviews were conducted with emergency department staff. Results: Overall job satisfaction increased (3.31–3.43; p = 0.029), with significant improvements in job monotony (3.30–3.64; p = 0.038) and physical work setting (3.31–3.75; p = 0.007). Qualitative analysis revealed ten subthemes including improved organisation and teamwork, a more methodical workflow, the need for adaptation, and concerns about potential dehumanisation. Conclusion: Lean Thinking increased job satisfaction in the emergency department, favouring structured work and better interprofessional communication. The professionals supported its continuity and highlighted the need for follow-up meetings and constant improvements.