MEASURING THE LEVEL OF STRESS AMONG NURSES
KRISTIAN JACOB P. POLIGRATES
Chapter 1: Introduction
Background of the Study
Nursing is widely recognized as one of the most demanding professions, characterized by high levels of
physical, emotional, and psychological stress. Nurses are often at the frontline of healthcare, providing
critical care and support to patients, which can lead to significant stress. This study aims to explore and
measure the stress levels among nurses, identifying key stressors and their impact on both personal and
professional well-being.
Understanding the stress levels among nurses is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, high stress levels
can lead to burnout, which negatively affects job performance and patient care. Secondly, chronic stress
can have severe health implications, including anxiety, depression, and cardiovascular diseases. Lastly,
identifying stressors can help in developing targeted interventions to improve the work environment
and overall well-being of nurses.
Previous studies have highlighted the prevalence of stress among nurses and its detrimental effects.
For instance, a study conducted in Malaysia found that hospital nurses experienced higher levels of
workplace stressors compared to non-hospital nurses. Another study in Sudan revealed that workload
and emotional issues related to patient care were significant sources of stress.
Significance of the study
Enhancing Nurse Well-being:
Understanding stress levels among nurses can lead to targeted interventions that improve mental
and physical health.A satisfied and resilient nursing workforce positively impacts patient care.
Improving Patient Care:
High stress impairs nurses’ effectiveness, potentially compromising patient safety.Addressing
stressors ensures nurses can provide high-quality care.
Reducing Burnout and Turnover:
Burnout contributes to high turnover rates.
Mitigating stress factors can lead to better retention and cost savings.
Informing Policy and Practice:
Evidence-based recommendations can guide administrators and policymakers.
Changes in workload management and mental health resources benefit nurses.
Contributing to Academic Knowledge:
Adds to existing research on nurse stress.
Fosters further innovation in stress management strategies.
Promoting a Culture of Support:
Recognizing stressors fosters empathy and support within healthcare institutions.
Scope and definition
Population and Sample:
The study will target registered nurses working in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities.
A representative sample of nurses from different departments (e.g., emergency, intensive care, general
wards) will be selected.
Geographical Coverage:
The research will be conducted across multiple healthcare institutions in the Zamboanga Peninsula,
Philippines.
Regional variations in stress levels and stressors will be considered.
Time Frame:
The study will span six months, allowing for data collection through surveys, interviews, and
observations.
Key Variables:
Independent Variables: Workload, shift patterns, emotional demands, work environment, and
interpersonal relationships.
Dependent Variable: Stress levels among nurses (measured using validated tools).
Data Collection Methods:
Surveys: Quantitative data on stress levels and stressors.
Interviews: Qualitative insights into nurses’ experiences and coping mechanisms.
Observations: Contextual understanding within healthcare settings.
Data Analysis:
Quantitative Analysis: Statistical methods to identify correlations.
Qualitative Analysis: Thematic analysis of interview transcripts.
Limitations:
Acknowledges self-report bias, variability across settings, and regional specificity.
Stress:
The body’s response to demands or challenges disrupting equilibrium.
Characterized by physical, emotional, and psychological strain.
Stress Level:
Intensity of stress experienced by an individual.
Measured using tools like the Nursing Stress Scale (NSS) or Perceived Stress Scale (PSS).
Nurses:
Healthcare professionals providing patient care and support.
Workload:
Assigned work within a specific period.
Includes patient load and administrative tasks.
Emotional Demands:
Emotional labor related to patient care.
Work Environment:
Physical and social conditions in which nurses operate.
Burnout:
State of exhaustion due to prolonged stress.
Coping Mechanisms:
Strategies to manage stress.
Occupational Stress:
Stress related to one’s job or profession.
