Occupational Stress and Nurses' Job Satisfaction: A single centre experience from Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Workplace stress is a significant issue in the healthcare sector, particularly among nurses who play a crucial role in patient care. Understanding the impact of workplace stress on nurses’ job satisfaction is essential for improving the well-being of healthcare professionals and enhancing the quality of patient care. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between workplace stress and nurses’ job satisfaction in clinical settings. It also seeks to identify the primary sources of workplace stress experienced by nurses and examine how these stressors influence job satisfaction levels. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey design was employed. The target population consisted of registered nurses working at Security Forces Hospital Makkah. A stratified random sampling technique was used to ensure representation from different nursing units. Data were collected using two validated tools: the Nurses’ Occupational Stress Scale (NOSS-21) and the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS). Descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient, were used for data analysis. Results: The study found that 76.4% of nurses experienced high levels of occupational stress. The mean job satisfaction score was 135.72, indicating a neutral level of job satisfaction. A significant negative correlation (r = -0.69, p < 0.001) was found between occupational stress and job satisfaction, suggesting that higher stress levels are associated with lower job satisfaction.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to reduce workplace stress and improve job satisfaction among nurses. Addressing work-family conflict, organizational inefficiencies, and excessive workloads are critical for enhancing nurses’ well-being and the quality of patient care.