Relationship between Job Stress and Fatigue Based on Job Demand-control-support Model in Hospital Nurses

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to examine nurses’ job stress based on Karasek's demand-control-support model and assess its relationship with different aspects of fatigue. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 522 nurses working in educational hospitals. Job stress dimensions and fatigue were measured by the Persian version of Job Content Questionnaire (JCQ) and Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI), respectively. RESULTS: The results showed that psychological and physical job demands obtained high scores, but social support and decision latitude got low scores. MFI results indicated that the highest score was related to the general fatigue. Moreover, the results showed a significant positive relationship between psychological job demands and general fatigue, but a significant negative correlation to reduced activity. CONCLUSIONS: Considering the effects of job stress on nurses’ fatigue, it is necessary to develop a suitable interventional program for nurses in healthcare centers, especially hospitals, to decrease job stress and improve working conditions.