OBJECTIVE: To evaluate how job satisfaction and motivation impact the perception of occupational stress among operating room nursing professionals. METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at a major federal university hospital in Northeast Brazil, with data collection occurring in May and June of 2023. RESULTS: Among the 92 respondents, which included nurses (35
38.1%) and technicians (52
61.9%), high stress scores were reported along with median or neutral levels of satisfaction and motivation. The primary factors affecting the perception of occupational stress in the sample were satisfaction with promotions, satisfaction with management, and the Hygiene Index of motivation. CONCLUSIONS: Dimensions of satisfaction and motivation can significantly impact the perception of occupational stress among operating room nursing professionals.