The effects of work overload on emotional exhaustion among nurses: serial mediation of job stress and depression

Purpose This study examines the relationship between work overload and emotional exhaustion among nurses. Specifically, the study investigates the serial mediating effect of job stress and depression on the relationship between work overload and emotional exhaustion. Design/methodology/approach Data were gathered between October 2025 and January 2026 through an online and face-to-face cross-sectional survey of 613 nurses working in two state hospitals in Türkiye. Sequential mediating effects were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences PROCESS macro (Model 6). Findings The findings showed that work overload is positively related to emotional exhaustion. Furthermore, the results revealed that job stress and depression sequentially mediate the relationship between work overload and emotional exhaustion. Originality/value This research offers a clearer understanding of the potential psychological mechanisms underlying the relationship between work overload and emotional exhaustion among nurses. It also extends the literature by informing the development of interventions aimed at alleviating job stress and reducing depression levels among nurses in the healthcare sector. In particular, primary caregivers and hospital administrations responsible for nurses should develop work overload-conscious, stress-reducing, and mental health-supporting methods to improve nurse well-being and enhance the quality and safety of patient care.