Correlation between Innovation Practices and Occupational Fatigue in Healthcare Professionals

Aims This study examined the relationship between innovation practices and occupational fatigue among healthcare professionals in a high-intensity oncology setting. Instrument & Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Sultan Qaboos Comprehensive Cancer Center (SQCCC) in Muscat, Oman in 2024, involving 163 clinical staff members. Data were collected using validated self-reported questionnaires that measured innovation practices, occupational fatigue, and demographic characteristics. Descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, and independent samples t-test were performed to identify significant relationships and demographic differences. Findings Innovation practices were rated highly across domains, with resource allocation scoring the highest (4.26±0.42). Occupational fatigue levels were relatively low overall (1.73±1.03), with shift-related fatigue being the most prominent (1.92±0.85). A significant negative correlation was identified between occupational fatigue and innovation (r=-0.68, p<0.05). Leadership behaviors (r=-0.62, p<0.05) and organizational climate (r=-0.59, p<0.05) showed the strongest negative associations with fatigue. Participants aged over 40 reported higher fatigue levels compared to younger professionals aged 20-40. Additionally, professionals with over 10 years of experience exhibited significantly higher innovation scores (p=0.032) and lower fatigue levels (p=0.027) than their less experienced counterparts Conclusion Demographic factors, such as age, experience, and education, play significant roles in shaping perceptions of fatigue and innovation.