Do Health Promotion Behaviors Affect Levels of Job Satisfaction and Job Stress for Nurses in an Acute Care Hospital?

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between nurse-reported health-promoting behaviors (HPBs), job stress, and job satisfaction in a hospital setting. BACKGROUND Job stress and satisfaction are key components of the nursing work environment; however, evidence of the relationship between HPB and job stress and satisfaction is lacking. METHODS A cross-sectional, 144-item survey was administered to nurses working in an acute care, community hospital in the southeastern United States. RESULTS Higher levels of HPB were associated with lower job stress and higher job satisfaction. Total HPB was associated with the competence subscale of job stress. Lower job stress was significantly associated with HPB subscales: spiritual growth, interpersonal relations, and stress management. CONCLUSIONS Nursing organizations can implement interventions that support HPB for nurses to reduce job stress and improve satisfaction.