Working Conditions and Productivity among Nurses in Selected Hospitals in Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Occupational stress and burnout are both factors that bedevil the healthcare sector in developing countries, particularly in Nigeria. This study explored the perceived impact of working conditions on the productivity of nursing staff in selected hospitals in southwest Nigeria. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study comprising of 200 respondents randomly selected from two hospitals in the study area. Data were collected using a standardized study questionnaire. The reliability of the study questionnaire was determined using the test-retest method conducted at the interval of two weeks. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and descriptive statistics were reported. Results: A majority, 106 (53%) of the respondents, reported that work stress caused increased absenteeism among nurses, high staff turnout and deterioration in quality of services provided to patients. The majority (87.0%) of respondents were females, while 13.0% were males. Respondents were aged between 26 and 35 years. About 79% of respondents agreed that their workplace had a warm, friendly and pleasant atmosphere. However, 47.5% of respondents said that the work load was too high and they were unable to cope with its demands. Conclusion and Implications for Translation: Stress arising from poor working conditions can have an adverse impact on the organization. The most common detrimental effects are increased absenteeism, deterioration in the morale of nurses, lack of job satisfaction and performance. To improve the organization’s effectiveness, employers should consider implementing strategies that are beneficial to both employees and the health organization. This is important because hospital workers face a variety of highly stressful working conditions while meeting the physical and psychological needs of patients.