Table 3 Selected correlation coefficients of individual explanatory variables obtained from the questionnaire conducted among nurses with the mortality rate

staff felt that they might question their supervisor’s decisions or actions regarding their care

-0.50

nurses are informed about changes introduced on the basis of reports about their negligence and mistakes

-0.50

the number of other medical personnel providing direct care to patients was greater in relation to the number of nurses

-0.48

the ward nurse was a good manager

-0.41

nurses receive timely information from the head of the department that may have an impact on their work

-0.41

the ward nurse supported the nursing staff even in a conflict with the physicians

-0.33

a job well done was praised and appreciated

-0.31

nurses were satisfied with the flexible work schedule

-0.31

Positive correlation with mortality rate

services were organized to ensure continuity of care (i.e., the same nurse looked after the patient for a long time on call)

0.53

the employed staff felt that they were severely punished

0.45

in a situation of tension or hostility, the risk of making a mistake is greater

0.38

fatigue has a negative impact on nurse’s work in emergencies

0.36

management is not knowingly putting patient safety at risk

0.36

nurses experienced physical abuse by patients and/or their families

0.36

staff felt exhausted at the end of the working day

0.34

staff felt tired when they got up for work in the morning

0.34

staff felt they were working too hard

0.33

after admitting the patient to the ward, they developed pressure ulcers

0.33

nurses were involved in the preparation of discharge and transport

0.30