Prevalence, Level, and Characteristics of Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms Among Critical Care Nurses in Oman

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent psychiatric issue, particularly among critical care nurses who face intense emotional demands. This descriptive correlational study employed a cross-sectional design to assess the prevalence and characteristics of OCD among 175 registered critical care nurses in Oman, utilizing the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R) for data collection. Recruitment occurred via online surveys distributed through social media in May-June 2023. The findings indicated that 88% of participants reported OCD, with the majority at low levels (45.45%). Significant differences in OCD were associated with marital status (t = 10.108, P = .002) and clinical experience (F = 3.275, P = .022), while age, gender, nationality, and education showed no significant differences. The high prevalence of OCD among critical care nurses underscores the psychological toll of their work environment. Factors, including single marital status and less clinical experience, contribute to the increase in OCD. This study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions to support critical care nurses in Oman. Establishing supportive resources and policies can improve their mental well-being and enhance patient care quality.