Relationship between occupational stress, sleep disturbance, and presenteeism of shiftwork nurses

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the relationships between occupational stress, sleep disturbance, and presenteeism in shiftwork nurses in South Korea. Design: This cross-sectional study used survey data from 442 shiftwork nurses at two hospitals in South Korea. Data were collected between March 2018 and April 2020. Methods: A self-reported questionnaire was used to assess shiftwork nurses’ demographic and job-related information, presenteeism, occupational stress, and sleep disturbance. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multiple regression, and the PROCESS macro. Findings: The mean presenteeism score was 39.52. Multiple regression analysis revealed that job insecurity, interpersonal conflict, occupational climate, lack of reward, and job demand are significantly associated with presenteeism. Sleep disturbance was related to presenteeism and had a moderating effect on the relationship between occupational stress and presenteeism. Conclusions: This study indicates that proper occupational climate, positive interpersonal relationships, and adequate sleep can reduce shiftwork presenteeism. Therefore, individual and organizational efforts to alleviate occupational stress and sleep disturbances are essential. Clinical relevance: Organizational support is needed to maintain a positive occupational climate and interpersonal relationships and ameliorate sleep disturbance among shiftwork nurses.