Nurses` Journey in the Pandemic: Fear of COVID-19 and Work Stress

Authors : Saadet GÜZEL, Serap AÇIKGÖZ

Pages : 661-666

Doi:10.31067/acusaglik.1300882

View : 96 | Download : 85

Publication Date : 2023-10-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Purpose: During the pandemic, nurses have played an important role in the treatment and care of individuals with COVID-19. Fear of COVID-19 was added to the work stress experienced by nurses for various reasons before the pandemic. Revealing the processes that affect nurses\` mental health during the pandemic is an important public health priority in terms of evaluating nurses\` health and managing the effective delivery of nursing services. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between fear of COVID-19 and work stress in nurses working in hospitals. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between February and April 2022 with 270 volunteer nurses. Data were collected using a Socio-demographic Characteristics Form, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and the Nurse Stress Scale. Descriptive statistical methods insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(counts, percentages, min-max, mean, and standard deviation values); and Pearson correlation analysis were employed to analyze the data. Results: Participants\` mean scores were 14.59±6.23 on the Fear of COVID-19 Scale and 62.46±11.44 on the Nurse Stress Scale. A statistically significant, positive, and low-level correlation was found between fear of COVID-19 and work stress insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(r=0.145, p<0.017);. Conclusion: Nurses\` fear of COVID-19 and work stress was below a moderate level. As their fear of COVID-19 increased, their work stress increased, as well. Measures to be taken to reduce nurses\` fear of COVID-19 can contribute positively to the reduction of their work stress and therefore to their health.
Keywords : Fear of COVID 19, Hospital, Nurse, Work related stress