Evaluate the Relationship between Stress and Job Satisfaction among Medical Laboratory Professionals in Saudi Arabia 2024

Abstract

Background: Job satisfaction has been widely studied across several healthcare disciplines and is correlated with important outcomes such as job performance and employee mental health. Medical laboratory professionals (MLPs) that are satisfied with their jobs are more productive. However, when job requirements do not match capabilities, it causes stress. As a result, it is critical to identify the source of dissatisfaction in order to reduce work-related stress, which has a detrimental impact on healthcare service quality. The study aimed: To evaluate the relationships between stress and job satisfaction factors among MLPs in Saudi Arabia hospitals, and to assess a possible correlation between job stress and job satisfaction. Methods: A cross sectional study involved all medical laboratory professionals in five hospitals in Saudi Arabia. A survey instrument measuring job satisfaction was developed from the result of earlier qualitative studies. Results: The results show a significant statistical association between stress and job satisfaction. The youngest MLPs at hospitals were less satisfied at work and more stressed than their older colleagues. The most important dissatisfaction factors, leading to job stress, are insufficient support for professional development, poor relations with supervisors and co-workers, as well as heavy workload. Conclusion: This study underlines the necessity of investing in strategies to satisfy laboratory staff expectations, improve elements that increase satisfaction, and reduce issues that cause dissatisfaction It provides specific recommendations for such measures and, as a result, coordinates actions aimed at enhancing the work environment in medical laboratories. When adopted, they would minimize occupational stress among medical laboratory specialists in Saudi Arabia, and possibly elsewhere.