The Relationship between Reward System and Occupational Stress: The Case of Nurses in the Healthcare Industry of Sulaymaniyah

Occupational stress among nurses is a persistent global challenge that threatens employee well-being, organizational sustainability, and the quality of patient care. Reward systems encompassing financial and non-financial incentives are widely recognized as strategic mechanisms for enhancing motivation and improving working conditions. However, empirical evidence examining their role in mitigating stress within the healthcare context of the Kurdistan Region remains limited. This study investigates the relationship between reward systems and occupational stress among nurses in Sulaymaniyah’s healthcare sector. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 108 nurses at Anwar Shexha Hospital through validated survey instruments. Descriptive findings revealed a high perception of reward systems (M = 4.421) and similarly high levels of occupational stress (M = 4.462). Pearson correlation analysis showed a strong, significant positive relationship between reward systems and occupational stress (r = 0.862, p < 0.001). The results suggest that although nurses perceive reward systems positively, structural and emotional job demands continue to elevate stress levels. This study contributes to the theoretical discourse on the Effort–Reward Imbalance Model by providing empirical evidence from a developing healthcare context and highlights the need for integrated reward strategies combined with supportive work environments to enhance nurse well-being and improve patient outcomes.