Exploring Psychosocial Risk Factors Among Spanish Nurses: Links to Health and Professional Variables

Objective: To identify factors associated with the perception of psychosocial risks among practising nurses in Spain and to examine their relationship with personal, professional and health-related characteristics. Design: Observational, cross-sectional and correlational study. Participants: A total of 2765 nurses completed an online questionnaire between March and June 2023. The survey was distributed via professional networks and the General Nursing Council of Spain. Methods: Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted, along with a categorical regression to identify factors associated with perceived psychosocial risk (measured using the ISTAS_Enfermería scale). Model assumptions were tested and multicollinearity was assessed. The model included self-reported sociodemographic, occupational and mental health variables. Results: Female sex, being under 41 years of age, working night or rotating shifts, recent use of psychotropic medication and symptoms of anxiety or depression were all associated with higher levels of perceived psychosocial risks. These variables explained 29.6% of the variance. Due to the cross-sectional design, no causal relationships can be inferred. Conclusions: Certain professional profiles appear to be more vulnerable to perceived psychosocial risks that are associated with their personal, occupational and health characteristics. These associations are likely to be bidirectional and context-dependent. Longitudinal research is needed to better understand causal mechanisms and to guide personalised preventive interventions.