DOI: https://doi.org/10.36347/sasjs.2026.v12i01.009

Pages: 50-60

Background: The operating room (OR) represents a high-pressure environment where effective interprofessional communication is crucial for patient safety and staff well-being. However, conflicts and stress among OR personnel remain poorly documented in many healthcare settings. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate stress levels and their indicators among OR practitioners, explore the mechanisms and origins of interpersonal conflicts, and demonstrate the impact of working relationships on care quality and staff well-being. Methods: A prospective descriptive study was conducted at Mohammed Boudiaf Public Hospital in Ouargla, Algeria, over 15 days. OR personnel, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, and OR nurses, completed a self-administered questionnaire addressing demographics, satisfaction levels, stress indicators, conflict frequency and nature, and perceived impact on care quality. Results: Forty-eight healthcare professionals participated (21 surgeons, 4 anesthesiologists, 12 nurses anesthetists, 11 OR nurses). The overall stress level was high (5.9/10), marked by physical and emotional suffering symptoms. Task-related conflicts were reported by 81% of personnel, with staff shortage (70.83%) and equipment deficiency (47.9%) as primary factors. Relational conflicts affected 50% of participants, mainly due to communication deficits (27.08%). These conflicts negatively impacted care quality and staff well-being, contributing to professional burnout (47.9%), stress (66.66%), and job dissatisfaction (35.41%). Conclusion: Stress management and interpersonal conflict prevention are priorities for optimal OR functioning. Further research at the national level is needed to elucidate the complexity of OR working relationships and develop appropriate interventions.