Occupational health in nurses’ staff of local hospitals: relationship between leadership role and post-pandemic psychosocial risks

Abstract

Psychosocial risk factors associated with stressful working conditions after COVID-19 outbreak, have been studied in 20 nurses of a Basic Hospital in a rural area of Ecuador. Previous studies showed that social relationships, autonomy, and psychological demands were prominent dimensions that lead the risk perception. The aim of this study was to identify determinant leadership in the well-being of nurses and its influence in the psychosocial environment. After the intervention a positive participatory (83%) and collaborative (81%) performance was accomplished, directive leadership decreased (70%), while achievement-oriented leadership remained low (68%). The Wilcoxon test showed significant differences in qualitative-quantitative dimensions of psychological risk (Z= -3.100; p<.01), and (Z= -2.925; p<.01) respectively. Significant relationships among risk factors, perceived work climate and perception of leadership styles was possible to improve the well-being, by using a virtual team model based on participatory leadership. Findings are discussed and measures are proposed for future research.