Key concepts include the impact of environmental factors on perceived stress levels of staff nurses.
The purpose of this study was to examine relationships between select environmental factors and perceived levels of stress of acute care nurses. Additional objectives were to examine the relationship between acute care nurses’ perceived stress levels and job satisfaction and intent to leave.
This study used a descriptive, correlational study design to examine relationships between select environmental factors and perceived stress levels of acute care nurses. Hardcopy survey packets and instructions were placed in staff mailboxes, and reminders were sent to encourage participation. This design enabled the study of relationships between environmental factors, perceived nurse stress, job satisfaction, and intent to leave.
Inverse relationships were noted between the environmental variables of noise, odor, and light and the outcome of perceived stress. Direct relationships were noted between perceived stress and job satisfaction and between perceived stress and turnover intention.
Several limitations were listed in the study. First, the study was conducted in a single healthcare facility. Second, no controls were imposed during completion of the study. Third, there was an unequal response rated between units. Fourth, the work environment questions were very general. Fifth, stress assessment questions were not specific to stress from the job. Sixth, questions related to intent to leave questions did not query specific reasons. Additional limitations noted for this study included the lack of metrics related to the environmental conditions and the lack of demographic information.