Job Strain Related to Nursing Care in Maternity Wards

Abstract

Job strain is a condition that significantly impacts healthcare professionals, with consequences for both their well-being and the quality of care delivered. In nursing, this issue is even more evident due to challenging work conditions, such as long shifts, high emotional demands, and the constant need for quick decision-making in sensitive situations, such as childbirth in maternity wards. This study aimed to assess job strain levels among nursing professionals working in the maternity ward of the Regional Hospital of Balsas, using the Job Stress Scale (JSS) to evaluate three dimensions: demand, decision latitude, and social support. Furthermore, the study sought to identify correlations between stress and sociodemographic variables. The sample consisted of 14 registered nurses and 46 licensed practical nurses, recruited based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data collection involved a sociodemographic questionnaire and the JSS, applied in person through Google Forms. Data analysis was conducted using Google Sheets and SPSS software, which supported descriptive statistics, frequency distribution, graphical representation, as well as calculations of mean, median, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient to examine associations between variables. Findings indicated that the nursing staff in the maternity ward faced high job demands characterized by complex and intensive tasks, while simultaneously experiencing low levels of control over their activities. Nevertheless, results also revealed significant social support, both from colleagues and the institution, acting as a protective factor against stress. Regarding sociodemographic variables, a slight correlation was found between age and years of professional experience with stress levels, suggesting that older and more experienced workers tend to report higher levels of strain. In conclusion, occupational stress is a relevant challenge for maternity nursing teams, with potential implications for mental health and care quality. Social support emerged as a crucial protective factor, underscoring the importance of organizational strategies aimed at fostering emotional support and providing adequate resources to help professionals cope with job demands.