Perceived Workplace Autonomy Scale (PWAS): A Preliminary Psychometric Evaluation Among Moroccan Nurses

Abstract

Background: A complex profession such as nursing requires technical expertise as well as transversal skills. Nurses face multiple daily decisions, including task prioritization, time management, and maintaining constructive relationships. In this context, autonomy competency is an essential component of job performance, satisfaction, and care quality.

Aim: This study aims to examine the factor structure and internal consistency of a self-administered scale to assess nurses’ perceived autonomy competence; their belief in their own capacity to act autonomously, as distinct from structural job autonomy; as well as to identify its underlying dimensions.

Methods: A cross- sectional questionnaire was conducted with 286 nurses from three hospitals in Morocco. The scale comprised 14 items grouped into four theoretical dimensions. A clarity pre-test with five nurses was conducted to ensure comprehension and refine item wording before full administration. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to examine construct validity. In addition, internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach’s alpha.

Results: Exploratory factor analysis using Principal Axis Factoring, combined with parallel analysis, revealed a single underlying factor accounting for 50.1% of the total variance. The scale demonstrated excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.931).

Conclusion: The study provides preliminary evidence of the scale’s internal consistency and unidimensional structure. This tool can help healthcare managers identify areas for improvement and implement continuing training to strengthen autonomy, thereby enhancing nursing practice and patient care outcomes.

Key words: Autonomy, Workplace Autonomy, competency, scale development.

Received Date: June 19, 2026

Accepted Date: July 10, 2026

Published Date: August 01, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/797