Occupational Stress and Its Impact on Nutritional Status among Nurses in the Hazara Division

Abstract

Background: Occupational stress among nurses can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors and poor dietary quality, potentially impacting their overall nutritional status. This issue is particularly concerning in hospital settings where high workloads, lack of resources, and exposure to traumatic events are common.

Objectives: This study aims to examine the relationship between occupational stress and nutritional status among nurses in the Hazara Division, assessing how stress levels may affect dietary habits and nutrient intake.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed, collecting data from 300 nurses using structured questionnaires. Occupational stress levels were measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), while nutritional status was assessed using the 24-Hour Dietary Recall Method. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were applied to determine the association between stress levels and nutrient intake.

Results: Out of the 300 nurses who completed the survey, 30% reported high stress, 29.3% moderate stress, and 40.7% low stress. Those with high-stress levels had significantly lower nutrient intake and poorer dietary quality compared to those with moderate or low stress. A positive correlation was found between high stresses and reduced dietary quality, with specific deficiencies observed in essential vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion: High levels of occupational stress among nurses are strongly linked to inadequate nutritional status and unhealthy eating behaviors. These findings underscore the need for targeted nutritional interventions and stress management programs to improve dietary habits and overall well-being among highly stressed nurses.