Abstract
BACKGROUND: Work stressors are associated with physical and psychological health problems among workers and thus increase their intentions to leave work. Various factors, including fear of infection, workload, and inadequate support, caused nurses especially those on the front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic greater stress. AIM: This study aims to identify Jordanian nurses' perceptions of work stressors and their intention to leave, and to investigate the relationship between these variables among nurses working in isolation units during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted. A convenience sample of 154 nurses who worked with COVID-19 patients participated in this study. Questionnaires were distributed online. RESULTS: A total of 154 nurses participated in the study, with an average age of 29.59 years. A majority of nurses (61.1%) were employed in COVID-19 isolation units for a duration of 6 to 8 months. Of the work-related stresses, the mean score was 3.17; 85.7% of respondents reported a positive level of stress. Intent to leave had a mean score of 4.03; 57.8% of respondents showed a slightly positive intention. Work stresses and intention to leave showed a modest, positive significant correlation (r = 0.52, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: In COVID-19 isolation units, Jordanian nurses' work stresses were positively correlated with their intention to leave. Lower-educated and single nurses were more stressed and likely to leave. Based on the findings, targeted stress-reduction programs are needed. Nursing retention and healthcare system sustainability amid public health emergencies depend on supportive, well-resourced workplaces.