Predictors of Workplace Stress among Nurses of Selected Government Hospitals in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria

Abstract

Workplace stress is prevalent among nurses, linked to reduced well-being and patient care
quality. This cross-sectional study aimed at assessing the predictors of workplace stress,
focusing on the knowledge, workload, long working hours and work environment determinants
among nurses. Therefore, this study delt with the lack of clarity in the scope, causes, and
severity of workplace stress as a gap, utilizing the Job- Demand Resource Model. The
Researcher surveyed 213 registered nurses by convenience in two (2) selected Government
hospitals of Ibadan; Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital and the Ring Road State Hospital,
using a validated and a structured questionnaire, which was analysed in SPSS version 27.
Collected data were coded and analysed using a descriptive statistics of frequency counts,
percentages, mean and SD. Results showed a mean age of 30+4years, with majority being
within 21-40years old. Majority (183), are female (85.9%), medical department nurses 71
(33.3%), and 0-5 years of experience 84(39.4%). Furthermore, majority (57.3%) had poor
knowledge workplace stress. majority (40.4%), representing 86 registered nurses under the
study experienced high level of workplace stress, long unsupportive working hours (62.4%),
and negative working environment (54.9%). Test of hypotheses showed that there was a
significant prediction of high workload (p-value=0.014), long working hours (0.001), and
workplace environment t(0.050). In conclusion, the study identified high workload, long
working hours, and an inadequate work environment as significant predictors of workplace
stress among nurses in selected government hospitals in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. It therefore
emphasized that guidelines must be put in place to manage workplace issues, in order to
promote an healthy work environment.