Interprofessional collaboration and work stress among health-care providers in China: A comparative study between physicians and nurses

Background: Interprofessional collaboration (IPC) is a key contributor to the health-care organizational culture of wellness and health-care provider (HCP) morale. Objective: The purpose of this study is examining the impact of IPC on their work stress among HCPs in China and comparing the differences in associations between IPC and work stress between Chinese physicians and nurses. Methods: With a survey research design, 1036 HCPs were electronically recruited. Five multiple linear regression models were developed to examine the association between IPC and work stress among general HCPs, physicians, and nurses. Results: IPC can significantly reduce work stress among Chinese HCPs. Regarding IPC, achieving mutually satisfactory solutions, having a clear understanding of boundaries, and a sense of trust are negatively associated with HCPs’ work stress, but team reflective revision was positively associated with HCPs’ work stress during the 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic. However, IPC factors are associated with work stress differently between physicians and nurses in China. Conclusion: Our findings have important implications for practice, research, and policy.