Technostress among healthcare professionals in Spain: a cross-sectional survey on the impact of digital health tools.

Abstract

To assess the prevalence of technostress among healthcare professionals (physicians and nurses) in Catalonia, Spain, and examine its association with sociodemographic characteristics and the contextual use of digital health tools. Cross-sectional survey. Healthcare institutions in Catalonia, including hospitals, primary care centres and social healthcare facilities. A convenience sample of 587 healthcare professionals (423 physicians and 164 nurses) who responded to an anonymous online questionnaire. The primary outcome was the level of technostress, assessed using the Technostress Creators Scale. Secondary outcomes included associations between technostress and sociodemographic factors, workplace context and the characteristics of digital technology usage. Technostress levels were moderate overall (mean=2.93±0.60; observed range=1.00-4.78; theoretical range=1-5), with no significant differences between physicians and nurses. However, older professionals experienced significantly higher technostress. Key stressors included techno-overload and techno-uncertainty. Familiarity with digital health tools and voluntary usage was associated with lower technostress. Technical difficulties and lack of perceived usability increased stress levels. Technostress is prevalent among healthcare professionals and particularly affects older staff. As digital health tools become essential in clinical practice, targeted strategies including training and technical support are needed to mitigate stress and promote well-being among healthcare workers.