Abstract

Background
Job satisfaction leads to employees being more productive. However, when the job requirements do not meet the capabilities it will cause stress. Therefore, it is important to define the cause of dissatisfaction to reduce work-induced stress as this has a negative impact on the quality of healthcare services. The literature on stress and satisfaction studying medical laboratory professionals (MLPs) is still limited.

The aim of this study was to assess the relationships between stress and job satisfaction factors among MLPs in Omani hospitals, and to quantify a possible correlation between job stress and job satisfaction.

Methods
A cross sectional study involved all medical laboratory professionals in eight hospitals in Oman from different geographical areas. A survey instrument measuring job satisfaction was developed from the result of earlier qualitative studies done by the authors in the population of 101 participants. In addition, job stress was assessed using a survey based on the Nurse Stress Index (NSI).

Results
The results show a significant statistical association between stress and job satisfaction. Omanis have significantly higher stress scores compared to non-Omani citizens. The youngest MLPs at Omani Hospitals were less satisfied at work and more stressed than their older colleagues. Job satisfaction was lower and job stress higher in the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital than in all the other hospitals. The most important dissatisfaction factors, leading to job stress, are insufficient support for professional development, poor relations with supervisors and co-workers, as well as heavy workload.

Conclusion
This study emphasizes the importance of investing in measures to meet the expectations of laboratory staff, to strengthen factors that increase satisfaction and eliminate dissatisfaction factors. It gives concrete advice on what those measures should be and, consequently, guides actions on improving the work environment in medical laboratories. When implemented those would reduce job stress among medical laboratory professionals in Oman, and, possibly, more widely.

Introduction

A highly motivated staff is essential to ensure a high quality and efficient service in healthcare organizations. Motivation of health care workers can initiate them to exert and maintain an effort towards organizational goals. Motivation among professional staff is dependent on the following factors: achievement, recognition for achievement, the work itself, responsibility, and professional growth or advancement [1,2]. A person with high motivation is more likely satisfied with her or his work [3]. Job dissatisfaction, on the other hand, can induce work-related stress [4]. However, satisfied employees have positive perceptions towards their organizations and are more efficient at work [5].

Consequently, it is important to pay attention to job satisfaction in all organizations including health care providers as it has an effect on the quality of the service [6]. High job satisfaction leads to employees being more productive and providing a higher service quality [7].

Healthcare staff, including medical laboratory professionals, may not contribute to a positive patient experience if their own needs are not met. Therefore, it is the task of healthcare managers to ensure satisfaction among their staff [8].

Conclusions

There is a correlation between job satisfaction and job stress, overall and by factor, among medical laboratory professionals in Oman. These findings are corroborated by studies performed elsewhere, especially in the Mid-east and Africa. In many of those countries ex-patriates form an important part of the workforce, and they are, by and large, more satisfied than residents. More experienced and senior staff show higher levels of satisfaction also. Gender and salary levels are also of importance.

The most important dissatisfaction factor among medical laboratory professionals is health and safety in the laboratories. The satisfaction components with highest scores were professional status and relationships with co-workers and leaders.

The most important dissatisfaction factors, leading to job stress, are insufficient support for professional development, poor relations with supervisors and co-workers, as well as heavy workload.

This study emphasizes the importance of investing in measures to meet the expectations of laboratory staff, to strengthen factors that increase satisfaction and eliminate dissatisfaction factors. It gives concrete advice on what those measures should be and, consequently, guides actions on improving the work environment in medical laboratories.