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Mortality among Icelandic nurses
1Department of Occupational Medicine, Administration of Occupational Safety and Health, Reykjavík, Iceland.
Scandinavian Journal of Work, Environment & Health
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Female nurses showed a moderate excess of suicide, particularly those employed longer. This study highlights potential work-related stress contributing to nurse mortality patterns.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Epidemiology
- Nursing Studies
Background:
- The health of female nurses is a critical area of occupational health research.
- Understanding mortality patterns in this demographic can inform workplace safety and support initiatives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the mortality patterns of female nurses in Iceland.
- To specifically examine the incidence of suicide within this cohort.
- To compare nurse mortality with the general female population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective cohort study design was employed.
- Data included 2159 registered female nurses in Iceland (1920-1979).
- Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR) was the primary outcome measure.
Main Results:
- A sustained healthy worker effect was observed in the nurse cohort.
- A moderate excess of suicide was noted, predominantly in nurses with less than 20 years of employment.
- Deficits in stomach cancer, ischemic heart disease, and respiratory disease were found, with these deficits more pronounced in nurses employed over 20 years.
Conclusions:
- Nurses, especially those with long employment durations, benefit from initial good health.
- The observed excess of suicide may be linked to work-related stress and frustration.
- Findings suggest a need to address occupational stressors in nursing.