Oncology Surgeons’ Work Motivation, Organizational Cynicism, and Risk Factors: Associations With Patient Mortality Incidence Rates

Psychosocial factors such as organizational cynicism and work motivation are associated with clinical outcomes, along with the knowledge and skills of medical professionals. Oncology surgeons, in particular, represent a critical group in terms of patient safety and mortality due to the high-risk surgical environment. The study aims to examine the association of organizational cynicism, work motivation, and professional and demographic characteristics of oncology surgeons with patient mortality. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 107 surgeons practicing in Türkiye to collect data. A cross-sectional, descriptive approach was selected as the research design. The study followed the STROBE checklist for observational research. The Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale (MWMS) and the Organizational Cynicism Scale (OCS) were used as measurement tools. To predict patient mortality rate, negative binomial regression analysis was used. Increased cognitive cynicism (IRR = 1.033, <i>p</i> < .001) and identified regulation (IRR = 1.188, <i>p</i> < .001) were associated with higher patient mortality rate. Contrastingly, increased intrinsic motivation (IRR = 0.944, <i>p</i> < .001) was associated with decreased mortality rate. Furthermore, gender and managerial position were associated with clinical outcomes as control variables. Reducing organizational cynicism and supporting autonomous motivation may inform strategic approaches to strengthening patient safety.