The Mediating Role of Job Stress in the Effect of Perceived Injustice on Cynicism Among Nurses in Türkiye: A Cross-Sectional Study; [Türkiye’deki Hemşirelerin Algıladığı Adaletsizliğin Sinizme Etkisinde İş Stresinin Aracı Rolü: Kesitsel Bir Çalışma]

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the effect of nurses' perceptions of organizational injustice on organizational cynicism and to investigate the mediating role of job stress. Understanding this relationship has crucial implications for improving workplace morale, reducing cynicism, enhancing employee well-being, and ultimately improving patient care quality. Methods: A descriptive, correlational, and cross-sectional study was conducted with 396 nurses working in a medium-sized public hospital in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey, between July and August 2023. Data were collected using demographic information forms and validated scales measuring perceived organizational injustice, organizational cynicism, and job stress. Results: Perceived organizational injustice significantly and positively impacts organizational cynicism (β = 0.181; p =.004) and job stress (β = 0.269; p = .000). Additionally, job stress significantly affects organizational cynicism (β = 0.186; p = .000) and mediates the relationship between perceived organizational injustice and organizational cynicism (β = 0.150, 95% CI [0.126, 0.482]). A significant interaction was also observed between perceived injustice and job stress (β = 0.197, 95% CI [0.094, 0.300]). Conclusion: Results suggest that job stress and perceived organizational injustice independently increase cynicism among nurses. High job stress amplifies cynical attitudes, highlighting the importance of organizational justice in managing job stress and cynicism. Addressing these issues can foster a healthier work environment and enhance both employee satisfaction and the quality of patient care. © 2025, Ataturk Universitesi. All rights reserved.