Background

Work-related stress occurs when work requirements exceed the person's ability to control a work situation. Stress is a defense mechanism that the body triggers to survive when experiencing threats, mental or physical exertion. Work-related stress is a recurring problem in the nursing profession. The cause of work-related stress is different and depends on various factors such as lack of time, lack of cooperation among colleagues, or insufficient resources in organizations.

Aim

The purpose is to investigate what causes work-related stress in nurses.

Method

A literature review based on a qualitative and quantitative method where ten articles were analyzed according to Friberg's (2017) five-step model.

Results

The results of the literature study draw attention to causes of work-related stress among nurses. The results were divided into two main themes and sex sub-themes. The cause of work-related stress was to work under high load, to work under time pressure, not being able to influence their work, to be in conflict, becoming discrimination and not having enough knowledge.

Conclusion

The discussion highlights how work-related stress affects nurses' health and the consequences of stress. Work-related stress is a problem that requires knowledge and experience of the nurses. In addition, organizational structure plays an important role in preventing stress among nurses.This means that the organization contributes with sufficient resources and opportunities that can facilitate the nurse's work.