Moral distress and job satisfaction among oncology and hematology nurses in Saudi Arabia

Moral distress is an important ethical concern among oncology and hematology nurses and may reduce job satisfaction and retention. This study examined moral distress, job satisfaction, their relationship, and associated factors among oncology and hematology nurses in Saudi Arabia.

A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 97 nurses at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Jeddah. Data were collected using the Moral Distress Scale-Revised and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire short form and analyzed using descriptive statistics, group comparisons, correlation, and linear regression.

Nurses reported mild moral distress (mean 70.58, SD 57.81) and moderate job satisfaction (mean 61.52, SD 13.35). Moral distress was significantly negatively correlated with job satisfaction (r = -0.510, p < 0.001). Higher moral distress was associated with female gender, Saudi nationality, regular shifts, lower educational preparation, junior job title, and lower income. Job satisfaction was associated with work area, shift pattern, years of experience, income, and moral distress.

Moral distress remains an important issue in oncology and hematology nursing and is associated with lower job satisfaction. Targeted organizational support may help improve ethical practice environments and nurse well-being.