Background Studies have shown that nurses experience higher level of stress in the work place as a result of working conditions which are demanding. The purpose of the study was to find out factors associated with occupational stress among nurses working in government clinics.

Methods A quantitative survey design was employed using quantitative methodology approach. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. 106 registered nurses working in government clinics in the greater Gaborone were selected purposively to take part in the study.

Results The study revealed that a higher percentage (74%) of nurses have ever experienced occupational stress. The results also revealed that females 80 percent respondents experienced stress compared to their male counterparts. The results also show that all of the respondents mentioned that they had experienced stress related to work. Respondents also mentioned that work relationship, shortage of staff, and workload contribute to stress among the nurses. On the other hand, the results of the study also found that staff welfare issues also contribute to stress among the nurses. These include lack of recognition, no personal growth, lack of support and unfriendly work environment. From the results most of the respondents indicated that there are no interventions dealing with stress in the workplace therefore the study recommends that interventions in the workplace needs to be introduced to address occupational stress among the nurse.

Conclusion The results of this study show that there were no interventions dealing with stress in the workplace therefore the study recommends that interventions in the workplace needs to be introduced to address occupational stress among the nurse. Furthermore there is a need to create wellness programs, reduce work overload and motivate staff by promotions and other means in order to increase level of job satisfaction.