Stressors in the Working Environment of Registered Nurses

Abstract

Objective: To provide support for nurse leader interventions that decrease workplace stressors for nurses. Background: Hospital nursing is highly stressful with persistent, unremitting emotional and physical strain creating unhealthy workplaces threatening the quality and safety of patient care, and decreasing the quality of life and personal health of nurses. Nurse leaders must assess stressors and implement stress reduction strategies to promote nurse personal health. Methods: The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) 35 item valid and reliable questionnaire was administered to Registered Nurses(RNs) in four hospitals located within Georgia. Results: RNs (464) reported increased high work demands; new nurses and nurses approaching retirement reported the highest stress perceptions. Conclusion: Ultimately, hospital administrators must take responsibility to create and foster a practice environment that ensures the health and safety of nurses.