Stress and coping among hospital workers

Background: Stress among hospital workers can have a strong impact on job satisfaction, emotional exhaustion, and cynicism; which may impact patient care. The higher levels of burnout lead to workers engaging in unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, etc. Study objectives: The purposes of this study are to (1) examine the level of stress, causes of stress, and symptoms of stress among hospital workers; (2) identify coping strategies utilized by hospital workers; and (3) investigate the behavioral manifestations of stress. Methods: Participants were recruited at a community hospital located in New York. An anonymous Employee Health Survey was developed to determine the level of stress experienced by hospital workers. The survey was distributed via interoffice mailing and existing collection channels within the facility. The burnout scores for each participant were calculated and statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS statistical programming. Results: Of those that responded there were high levels of obesity and poor exercise habits; however, there were lower than expected levels of burnout and stress. This study serves as a pilot for future studies of a larger scale to further investigate the relationship between perceived stress levels and health behavior coping mechanisms utilized by hospital workers. Conclusions: This study revealed the issues of poor nutrition and lack of exercise, which can be addressed by policy and program intervention at this hospital.