Factors associated with the level of occupational stress among nurses-a cross-sectional study

Occupational stress is a significant issue in the nursing profession, stemming from the high level of responsibility and excessive workload in demanding clinical settings. Prolonged exposure to stress can lead to adverse health effects and a decline in the quality of patient care.

The aim of the study was to assess the level of occupational stress among nurses and to analyze the relationship between occupational stress and selected sociodemographic and work-related factors.

The study included 588 male and female nurses employed in three hospitals. A diagnostic survey method was employed, utilizing the Subjective Work Assessment (SWA) Questionnaire and a proprietary questionnaire that covered socio-demographic and work-related data. Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric tests and linear regression.

In the study group, high levels of work-related stress were found. The highest levels of stress were observed among those working overtime and those with a higher patient-to-nurse ratio. Significant differences were also observed between different places of employment-the highest levels were recorded in intensive care units, while the lowest levels were recorded in primary healthcare. Marital status also influenced stress levels-those in a relationship experienced lower levels of stress. In multivariate analysis, significant predictors of stress included age (positive correlation), length of service (negative correlation), gender, education, work system, and overtime work.

Work-related stress among nurses is a multifactorial phenomenon, with both organizational and sociodemographic factors involved. Higher levels of occupational stress are primarily related to organizational factors, such as workload, patient-to-nurse ratio, and overtime work.