Occupational Stress, Job Performance and Role Overload Among Nurses Working in the Healthcare Sector: A Mediational Model

Abstract

Extensive research in workplace psychology has explored the dynamics of role overload, occupational stress, and job performance. However, their complex interplay needs attention among nurses working in the healthcare sector. This study, involving 310 nurses in hospitals (2 Pakistani and 3 Saudi hospitals), employed three reliable questionnaires: Shortened Reilly's Role Overload Scale (α = 0.82) to assess role overload, a six-item Job Stress Scale (α = 0.85) for occupational stress, and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire version 1.0, comprising task performance (α = 0.80), contextual performance (α = 0.85), and counterproductive work behavior (α = 0.65) subscales for job performance. Findings revealed that role overload was associated with increased stress and negatively impacted task and contextual performance, as well as correlated with counterproductive work behavior. Elevated stress levels were linked to poorer task performance, reduced teamwork (contextual performance), and increased counterproductive work behavior. Improved task performance correlated positively with enhanced teamwork (contextual performance), and those excelling in either of these exhibited reduced counterproductive work behavior. Crucially, occupational stress mediated the connection between role overload and all aspects of job performance. This underscores the need to mitigate occupational stress among nurses, not only for their well-being but also for enhanced patient outcomes. Addressing occupational stress emerges as a vital strategy to foster a healthier work environment in healthcare settings.