Stress and coping in Australian nurses: a systematic review
1The University of Queensland, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Herston, Queensland, Australia. joanne.lim@uqconnect.edu.au
International Nursing Review
|May 22, 2010
Summary
Australian nurses experience significant work-related stress, including overload and aggression, impacting their well-being. Effective coping strategies and supportive relationships are crucial for mitigating these effects.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
Background:
- Stress is a significant issue in the nursing profession, exacerbated by work overload, staff shortages, and high turnover.
- While nursing stress is widely studied, specific factors within the Australian context require further clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key stressors contributing to stress among Australian nurses.
- To examine the coping mechanisms employed by nurses.
- To assess the impact of these stressors on nurses' health and overall well-being.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was performed.
- The review focused on studies concerning stress and coping strategies within the Australian nursing population.
Main Results:
- Identified stressors include work overload, role conflicts, and workplace aggression.
- Common coping strategies involve seeking support, problem-solving, and self-control.
- Detrimental effects on nurses' physical and mental health were widely reported, with limited attention to the impact on family and social life.
Conclusions:
- Recommendations emphasize addressing both personal and work-related stressors.
- Promoting effective coping strategies is vital for nurse well-being.
- Maintaining supportive social relationships can help mitigate the effects of work stress.
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