Assessing the Satisfaction Level and Job-Related Stress among Emergency Medical Technicians in the Bono and Ahafo Regions of Ghana.

Abstract

The workplace has become a significant source of stress due to technological changes, work overload, and the demand for greater productivity. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess job satisfaction levels and the impact of job-related stress among Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) in the National Ambulance Service of the Bono and Ahafo regions in Ghana. 250 respondents participated, primarily female (59.6%) and aged 30-39. The study found widespread job dissatisfaction, with 95.2% unhappy with salaries, 56.4% dissatisfied with supervisor support, and high dissatisfaction with uniform supply (92.8%) and office accommodation (93.6%). Positive aspects included good coworker relationships (95.2%) and well-equipped ambulances (84.4%). Key stressors identified were poor road conditions (91.2%) and frequent critical incidents like robberies (96.8%). Older EMTs reported significantly higher stress levels (AOR = 3.83, p = 0.011). EMTs commonly used healthy stress-management strategies, such as relaxing after emergencies (89.6%), discussing experiences with colleagues (94.4%), and seeking counseling (90.4%). Job satisfaction and occupational stress were significantly related (p < 0.05), with environmental factors like frequent robberies and poor road conditions contributing to increased stress. Poor road conditions heightened stress nearly six-fold (AOR = 5.95, p < 0.001), emphasizing the role of work conditions in impacting EMTs' well-being. This study highlights significant dissatisfaction with salaries, work conditions, and supervisor support, though positive coworker relationships and autonomy in equipment use contributed to job satisfaction. Job-related stressors, including poor road conditions, patient handover delays, musculoskeletal injuries, and exposure to traumatic events, negatively impacted EMTs' physical and mental health, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia. The findings underscore the need for interventions addressing workplace stress and providing mental health support to enhance EMT well-being.