Exploring the potential of risk communication strategy to prevent work-related stress among healthcare workers

In our scoping review, we found that risk communication is seldom integrated into interventions for HCWs, and when it is included, it is rarely tailored to their specific risk perceptions. Our qualitative study showed that while HCWs and experts share knowledge about stress, their perspectives differ: experts generally took a theoretical and research-based approach, whereas HCWs also drew on personal experiences and values.
We also assessed measurement instruments and biomarkers. Our systematic review indicated that screening HCWs for work-related stress is currently limited, due to the small number of studies per instrument and their generally low methodological quality. In a pilot biomarker study, we identified potential immune and hormonal markers in the stratum corneum, but emphasized the need for further validation.
We developed and piloted a risk communication intervention focusing on stress symptoms, risk factors, and personal values. The intervention showed promise in motivating the intention to change—especially when highlighting discrepancies between values and behavior. However, we did not observe significant effects on behavior or symptoms, which we partly attribute to implementation challenges.
Overall, our findings support the further development of risk communication strategies that are tailored to HCWs’ mental models. We recommend co-creation approaches and organizational-level interventions to enhance relevance and engagement in reducing work-related stress.