[The Correlates and Predictive Factors of Work Stress, Job Satisfaction, and Resilience in Nurses in the Post-COVID-19 Era].

Abstract

Background: Individuals in the asymptomatic incubation period of COVID-19 are highly contagious. This threat of asymptomatic transmission contributes to increased stress among nursing staffs and undermines their resilience.

Purpose: This study was designed to explore the correlates and predictive factors of resilience in the contexts of work stress and job satisfaction among nursing staffs.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed on a convenience sample of 408 nurses. The survey included a demographic datasheet, the Nurse Occupational Stressor Scale, Job Satisfaction Scale, and Resilience Scale. Inferential statistics were conducted using independent sample t test, Pearson correlation analysis, and stepwise multiple linear regression.

Results: The participants were an average 32.6 years old. The average resilience score indicated a "moderate" resilience level. Resilience was treated as the dependent variable, while the demographic variables, Nurse Occupational Stressor Scale score, and job satisfaction dimension scores were treated as independent variables. Stepwise regression analysis was used to identify the key predictors of resilience, which included professional autonomy and development (β = .468, p <.001), occupational hazards (β = .163, p <.001), interpersonal interaction and collaboration (β = .223, p < .001), self-perceived economic status (β = -.093, p < .05), supervisor's leadership style (β = -.118, p < .05), and marital status (β = .078, p < .05). The model explained 39.4% of the total variance.

Conclusions / implications for practice: The results of this study support healthcare providers promoting resilience in several specific ways. Healthcare organizations should enhance professional competence through professional education and training programs; improve workplace safety; foster an atmosphere conducive to team cooperation; provide job support through mentorship and apprenticeship systems and caring leadership from nursing supervisors; continuously conduct caring and stress-relief activities; and utilize online self-report health questionnaires to enable nursing staff facing psychological and emotional challenges to seek professional counseling and support. Enhancing resilience strategies on a long-term basis can improve the mental health of nursing staff, which may be expected to enhance the quality of patient care.