Factors Predicting Exercise Behavior of Chonburi Cancer Hospital Personnel

Abstract

This predictive correlational research aimed to examine exercise behavior and predictive factors among healthcare personnel at Chonburi Cancer Hospital. A sample group refers to personnel working at Chonburi Cancer Hospital, selected by simple random sampling 230 individuals. Data collection took place between April and May 2023, utilizing a comprehensive set of tools consisting of components: 1) personal information, 2) perception of exercise benefits, 3) perception of exercise barriers, 4) self-efficacy in exercise, 5) social support for exercise, 6) situational influence, and 7) exercise behavior. The reliability analysis using Cronbach's alpha coefficient confirmed the high internal consistency of the instruments, with values ranging from .84 to .95.

Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple stepwise regression analyses. The findings revealed that: 1) the exercise behavior of healthcare personnel was at a low level, while the perception of exercise benefits was high, and the perception of exercise barriers was low, in addition, the perception of self-efficacy for exercise, social support for exercise, and the influence of situational factors on exercise is at a moderate level; 2) self-efficacy in exercise, social support for exercise, and perception of exercise barriers significantly predicted exercise behavior, with standardized regression coefficients (β) of .49, .22, and -.14, respectively. The predictive factors accounted for 40.1% of the variance in exercise behavior (Adjust R² = .401, p < .001).

Based on these results, it is recommended that nurses implement continuous exercise activities for healthcare personnel at the hospital, fostering appropriate exercise engagement. Hospital administrators should provide exercise facilities and equipment and establish policies that promote exercise among personnel to cultivate a culture of exercise within the organization.