Determinantes del estrés laboral y nivel de riesgo psicosocial en docentes universitarios de medicina y enfermería de la Universidad Católica de Cuenca, Campus Azogues marzo-agosto 2025

Abstract

Work-related stress and psychosocial risk have a direct impact on the health, well-being, and performance of university faculty. Identifying these factors is essential for implementing prevention strategies and promoting healthy work environments. However, their magnitude and associated factors vary depending on the context, academic program, and characteristics of the work environment. Objective: To analyze the determinants of work-related stress and psychosocial risk in medicine and nursing faculty at the Catholic University of Cuenca, Azogues campus, during March-August 2025. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and correlational study was conducted with 81 professors. Stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and psychosocial risk using the Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Sociodemographic and work-related data were collected, and associations were analyzed using Pearson correlations, Student's t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests. Results: The sample was predominantly female (58%) with a mean age of 38.7 years. Most participants reported low stress (56.8%) and low psychosocial risk (76.5%), although nursing faculty showed greater helplessness and lower self-efficacy than medical professors. A significant negative correlation was found between perceived stress and dimensions of psychosocial risks, particularly with workload and pace of work (r = -0.49; p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results confirm that academic and work factors influence teacher stress and psychosocial risk. Although overall levels are low, certain specific determinants require preventive attention. These findings provide valuable evidence for workplace wellness strategies and future research in similar contexts. Keywords: health determinants, work-related stress, risk factors, psychosocial functioning, university faculty