Posttraumatic stress disorder in the nursing population: a concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Psychology
• Concept Analysis

Background:

• Nurses face high work-related stress, impacting job retention and personal functioning.
• Inconsistent terminology in nursing literature complicates understanding of nurse distress.
• Existing medical language often overemphasizes psychopathology, neglecting the broader impact on nurses.

Observation:

• A concept analysis using Walker and Avant's strategy was performed.
• Literature from 1994-2011 was reviewed using keywords: secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, vicarious traumatization, posttraumatic stress disorder, and nurse.
• The Nurse as Wounded Healer theory provides a relevant framework.

Findings:

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in nurses is characterized by intrusions, avoidance, and hyperarousal.
• Consequences of PTSD in nurses include altered worldviews, retention problems, sleep disturbances, and social network issues.
• The Nurse as Wounded Healer theory offers a clearer conceptualization of PTSD in this population.

Implications:

• This analysis enhances understanding of PTSD within the nursing context.
• Identifies limitations in previous conceptualizations of nurse distress.
• Provides a foundation for developing targeted interventions and support for nurses experiencing PTSD.