WORK ENVIRONMENT, JOB FULFILLMENT, AND STAFF STABILITY AMONG NURSES IN RIYADH HOSPITALS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Staff stability among nurses is essential for maintaining continuity of care, reducing turnover-related costs, and improving the quality and sustainability of healthcare services. In hospital settings, nurses’ stability may be influenced by organizational conditions and the extent to which nurses feel fulfilled in their professional roles. Aim: This study aimed to examine the effects of work environment and job fulfillment on staff stability among nurses working in Riyadh hospitals, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 384 nurses working in hospitals in Riyadh City. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire that measured demographic and professional characteristics, work environment, job fulfillment, and staff stability. The questionnaire items were rated on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability and validity testing, exploratory factor analysis, and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling through SmartPLS. Direct path analysis was used to assess the effects of work environment and job fulfillment on staff stability. Results: The findings showed moderate levels of work environment, job fulfillment, and staff stability among nurses. Staff stability recorded the highest mean score (M = 3.35, SD = 0.94), followed by job fulfillment (M = 3.29, SD = 0.75) and work environment (M = 3.26, SD = 0.80). The measurement model demonstrated strong internal consistency, with Cronbach’s alpha values of 0.94 for work environment, 0.92 for job fulfillment, and 0.95 for staff stability. The structural model explained 54.0% of the variance in staff stability. Work environment had a positive and statistically significant effect on staff stability (β = 0.405, t = 9.08, p < 0.001). Job fulfillment also had a positive and statistically significant effect on staff stability (β = 0.281, t = 6.63, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Work environment and job fulfillment were significant predictors of staff stability among nurses in Riyadh hospitals. Improving workplace conditions, strengthening administrative support, enhancing professional development opportunities, and promoting nurses’ fulfillment may contribute to better workforce stability and healthcare service sustainability.