Occupational stress amongst nurses working in a psychiatric setting

Abstract

The nursing profession in a psychiatric environment is associated with a range of mental and physical health challenges, leading to stress and burnout. The demanding nature of the work, coupled with the need to work varying shifts, exacerbates the potential for psychiatric health risks. However, the problems associated with work pressure and its impact on the nurses' performance in psychiatric hospitals in Malta have been scarcely investigated. Previous studies conducted in Malta were relatively insignificant in number and mainly focused on patients rather than on nurses themselves. This research study investigates the occupational stress among nurses working in a psychiatric setting. Through a quantitative data collection approach, using a stratification sampling method among nurses at Mount Carmel Hospital in Malta, the research study undertakes a comprehensive statistical analysis that scrutinizes six key issues associated with patients, workplace, peer, relationship, managerial, and organizational. The study concludes that currently, there is a status quo in managing occupational stress among nurses at Mount Carmel Hospital in Malta. The study revealed that occupational stress on nurses is a determinant of the quality of services delivered to patients suffering from psychiatric illness. It is concluded that occupational stress is positively correlated with negative outcomes in the performance of nurses due to demotivation. Inadequate staffing, work-related factors, and uneven distribution of work have a significant impact on the nurses' stress levels. Moreover, conflicts between nurses and management are impacting the nurses' stress levels negatively. Lack of social support from peers is creating burnout in nurses, and they feel excessive pressure from management to fulfil their duties. The lack of professional training and job recognition is also leading to an increase in occupational stress among nurses at Mount Carmel Hospital. It is recommended that a training program for nurses be embarked upon at Mount Carmel Hospital. Administrative duties are to be segregated from the nursing role, and the management must create nursing teams and improve leadership and communication skills while increasing the support to nurses to tackle their concerns. Moreover, the management should offer growth opportunities, recognition, and improved working conditions for nurses.