Factors Associated With Self-Efficacy in Medical Staff: A Cross-Sectional Study

Self-efficacy is essential for medical staff to manage challenges and maintain professional commitment. In Iran, high workloads, staff shortages, and limited mental health support may negatively affect self-efficacy and well-being. This study examines key factors influencing self-efficacy among Iranian medical staff.

The survey included 411 Iranian medical staff in July 2024. The sample size was determined based on power analysis to ensure sufficient statistical power for detecting significant associations between self-efficacy and its related factors. Participants completed Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE), and Social Support Indexes (SSI). Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and analytical tests (χ ², Pearson, correlation coefficient, and logistic regression) at a significance level less than 0.05.

The mean (SD) of general self-efficacy of staff was at a moderate level (22.55 ± 5.40). The mean (SD) of PSQI and SSI was 7.67 ± 4.46 and 29.80 ± 13.94, respectively, which indicates poor sleep quality and moderate social support. The mean (SD) of the general health of staff was 51.48 ± 03, which indicates that the general health of workers is at risk. Self-efficacy score was directly related to higher sleep quality (OR: 4.362, CI: 1.481-12.853, p = 0.008), general health quality physically (OR: 2.103, CI: 1.041-4.248, p = 0.038), less anxiety of general health quality (OR: 2.175, CI: 2.203-3.934, p = 0.010), and general social support (OR: 7.099, CI: 3.121-16.149, p < 0.001).

This study identified poor sleep quality, moderate self-efficacy, low social support, and general health risks among Iranian medical staff. Given the positive association between self-efficacy and various well-being indicators, targeted interventions-such as mindfulness training, sleep hygiene programs, and social support initiatives-are recommended. Strengthening self-efficacy through institutional support and stress management strategies should be integrated into healthcare policies to promote a more resilient and effective workforce.