The Relationship Between Guilt Feeling and Job Stress in Oncology Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study

Oncology nurses are frequently exposed to emotionally demanding situations that may compromise their psychological well-being and the quality of patient care. This study aimed to assess the levels of occupational stress and caregiver guilt among oncology nurses and to explore the relationship between these two variables.

This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2024 among oncology nurses affiliated with the University of Medical Sciences. A total of 140 nurses were selected through convenience sampling. Data collection instruments included the Caregiver Guilt Questionnaire and the Expanded Nursing Stress Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance, independent t tests, and multivariate logistic regression to examine associations between stress, guilt, and demographic variables.

The mean score of occupational stress was moderate (2.77 ± 0.56), while caregiver guilt was relatively low (32.63 ± 9.73). A significant positive correlation was found between job stress and guilt (r = 0.51, p = 0.01). Gender (p = 0.001) and level of education (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with job stress. Marital status was significantly related to caregiver guilt (p = 0.012).

On the basis of the results and considering the significant relationship between job stress and guilt, it is of great importance to employ job stress reduction techniques among oncology nurses. It is necessary for healthcare system policymakers to take action to reduce job stress among nurses by using factors such as eliminating consecutive work shifts, adding welfare services, and improving the physical working environment.