Occupational stress, job satisfaction, and intention to leave among critical care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Lebanon.

BACKGROUND

In the context of an ongoing nursing shortage and severe economic crisis in Lebanon, the COVID-19 pandemic placed significant strain on the Lebanese healthcare system, particularly affecting frontline nurses' psychological well-being and work conditions.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to examine the relationship between occupational stress, job satisfaction, and intention to leave among nurses caring for COVID-19 patients in Lebanon.

METHODS

A cross-sectional correlational design was conducted among a convenience sample of 112 critical care nurses working in a university hospital in Lebanon. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that included the MERS-CoV Staff Survey and the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale (MMSS).

RESULTS

Findings revealed high levels of occupational stress and moderate levels of job satisfaction among participants. More than half of the nurses reported an intention to leave their current position. A significant negative relationship was found between stress related to infection stigma and job satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted mental health and organizational support interventions to improve nurse retention and well-being, particularly in resource-constrained healthcare settings. Future research should consider broader socio-political factors influencing nurses' work environments in Lebanon.