This literature review explores how social work can contribute to a health-promoting and sustainable work environment for nurses and first-line managers in inpatient care, with a focus on strengthening leadership, collaboration, and organizational conditions.

Purpose: To investigate how social work can help prevent ill-health and promote sustainable working conditions for nurses and first-line managers in inpatient care.

Research questions:

How can social work contribute to preventing ill-health and strengthening a sustainable work environment?

Which specific interventions and strategies can support long-term well-being and work engagement?

A structured literature review was conducted using systematic searches in PubMed and Cinahl, complemented by thematic analysis. The results are presented in two themes: (1) recurring stressors affecting health and retention, and (2) the role of social work in preventing ill-health and fostering sustainable working conditions. Findings show that supportive leadership, ethical reflection, and interprofessional collaboration are crucial for improvement. Integrating occupational social work can address psychosocial risks at both individual and organizational levels, reducing stress and strengthening resilience.