Demographic Profile and Work Stress of Nursing Professionals in Public Hospitals in Aracaju, Sergipe.

Abstract

Background: Occupational or work-related stress remains a persistent challenge in nursing, often intensified by sociodemographic factors. In Brazil's Northeast, particularly in Aracaju, Sergipe, public hospital nurses face unique stressors shaped by regional socioeconomic conditions. Objective: This cross-sectional exploratory study aimed to examine the relationship between perceived work-related stress and the sociodemographic profiles of nursing professionals in three public hospitals in Aracaju. Methods: Data were collected via an online questionnaire incorporating the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and sociodemographic items. Results: Among 440 participants-comprising nurses (42%), nursing technicians (38.2%), nursing assistants (8.9%), and specialists (10.9%)-moderate to high stress levels were most prevalent among nursing technicians and assistants. Elevated stress was notably associated with adult women working in high-complexity sectors (e.g., pediatrics, obstetrics, ICU), particularly those without partners, earning low incomes, and with over ten years of professional experience. Conclusions: The findings highlight a vulnerable subgroup within the nursing workforce and underscore the need for targeted interventions to mitigate occupational stress in public healthcare settings. This study contributes region-specific insights into the intersection of stress and sociodemographic factors, offering a foundation for future policy and support strategies.