The Association Between Missed Nursing Care and Job Satisfaction Among Nurses in Saudi Arabian Hospitals: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: Missed nursing care (MNC), defined as any omitted or delayed aspect of required patient care, is a global concern affecting both patient outcomes and nurse well-being. In Saudi Arabia, few studies have examined its relationship with job satisfaction. This study assessed the prevalence of MNC, job satisfaction, and their association among nurses in government hospitals. Methods: A correlational, cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2025 in government hospitals across Albahah, Hail, and Almadina. A total of 366 registered nurses participated. Data were collected via a structured online questionnaire including demographic information, the Missed Nursing Care Scale, and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman’s correlation, and regression analysis. Results: Basic care activities such as mouth care, bathing, and meal assistance were the most frequently missed tasks, mainly due to staffing shortages and high patient loads. The median MSQ score was 60 (44–71 Interquartile Range), reflecting moderate job satisfaction. A significant negative correlation was observed between MNC and job satisfaction (r = −0.267, p < 0.001), indicating that increased missed care was associated with lower satisfaction levels. Conclusions: The findings highlight the urgent need for healthcare administrators and policymakers to implement strategies to improve staffing levels and work environments. Addressing these organizational factors is essential to reducing missed nursing care, enhancing nurse job satisfaction, and ultimately improving patient safety and care quality in Saudi government hospitals.