A structural equation model analysis of the association between work-related stress, burnout and job-related affective well-being among nurses in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Aim: To test a model that examines the direct and indirect effects of work-related stress on job-related affective well-being through compassion fatigue. Background: Despite the danger of infection, nurses' dedication to their work appears to be an innate desire to provide care for patients with COVID-19. Nonetheless, the universal effort to control the outbreak has led to extended work hours and workload, which has been defined as the primary contributor to work-related stress among nurses and might impact their job-related affective well-being. Method: We used a cross-sectional exploratory design. Data were collected using an online survey from 161 nurses working in the Saudi health care system. The survey included obtaining information on demographics and work-related stress using Professional Quality of Life Scale version 5 to measure compassion fatigue as well as a job-related affective well-being scale. Results: Work-related stress had significant negative direct effects on job-related affective well-being and positive effects on compassion fatigue. Compassion fatigue had significantly negative direct effects on job-related affective well-being. Work-related stress exerted negative indirect effects on job-related affective well-being through compassion fatigue, which partially mediated the relationship. Conclusion: The findings supported the model and added to our understanding regarding the impact of work-related stress on nurses. Implications for Nursing Management: Stress reduction is an important element in improving staff outcomes as well as job-related affective well-being.