An investigation of the relationship between environmental factors and job satisfaction in intensive nursing, with particular reference to spinal trauma.

The literature concerning the effects of stress on health service professionals has increased rapidly over the past 10 years (eg Holland et al, Koran et al, Stone et al). The potential sources of such stresses are briefly reviewed and the involvement of the working environment as a source of stress is highlighted. The present investigation has examined the experience of 3 groups of nurses, working in spinal injuries, head injuries, and general medicine, using a standardised questionnaire devised by Moos. Significant differences were found between the 3 nurse groups on 3 subscales of the test (autonomy, innovation, and comfort), and the implications of the findings are discussed.