Predictors of job-related stress among all cadres of health care workers in a Tertiary Health Instuition, South Western Nigeria: A need for holistic approach

Abstract

Background: Workplace stress is a non–biological major occupational hazard and safety risk worldwide. Health care professions demonstrate core  professional values which are essential for quality healthcare services but which consequently attract certain factors capable of inducing stress.

Objectives: This study assessed the prevalence, pattern of job-related stress and its predictors among health care workers in a tertiary hospital setting.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study conducted using a validated Job-Demand-Control Questionnaire (Cronbach'Alpha-0.85) This semi-structured  questionnaire was completed by 663 randomly selected health workers through multistage sampling technique. Data were analysed using descriptive  and inferential statistics at a p value <0.05.

Results: Respondent's mean age (SD) was 40 (8.95) years. There were 342 (51.6%) males and 321 (48.4%)  females. The prevalence of job stress was 22.9%, low strain (21.6%), active (34.2%) and passive (21.3%) respectively. Significantly associated with job stress  were younger age (OR=3.10, 95% CI=1.38 6.92), Physician (OR=3.04,95CI=1.56-5.90), duration of service <5 years (OR=2.50,95CI=1.35-4.60), low  social support (OR=2.01, 95CI=1.37-2.96), low job control (OR=3.37, 95CI=2.37-4.70) and childless couples (OR=2.24; CI=1.3-3.88).

Conclusion: Job stress is  a major problem affecting young health workers with physicians more at risk. There is need for holistic approach to stress management including early  diagnosis, periodic evaluation, counselling and adequate treatment.