Abstract: Objective: To explore the heterogeneity in work engagement among outpatient nurses in tertiary grade A general hospitals and analyze its influencing factors, thereby providing a reference for developing targeted interventions. Methods: Using convenience sampling method, 542 outpatient nurses from seven tertiary grade A general hospitals in Beijing were surveyed in November 2024. Data were collected using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, and the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index. Latent profile analysis was employed to identify distinct subgroups of work engagement. Multivariate Logistic regression was used to analyze the factors influencing the different latent profiles. Results: The average work engagement score among outpatient nurses was 37.56±11.14. Three distinct latent classes was revealed: the "low engagement-burnout" profile (9.23%), the "moderate engagement-vigorous" profile (43.17%), and the "high engagement-dedicated" profile (47.60%). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis indicated that average monthly income, type of employment, and the practice environment were influencing factors for work engagement profiles (P<0.05). Conclusion: Work engagement among outpatient nurses in tertiary grade A general hospitals is at a medium-high level overall but exhibits significant heterogeneity. Nursing administrators should develop targeted, group-specific interventions based on the distinct profiles of work engagement and their key influencing factors to enhance nurse engagement and improve the quality of service.

Key words: outpatient department; nurse; work engagement; latent profile analysis; nursing administration