Exploring predictors of perceived stress: a cross-sectional study among nursing students during their clinical...

Clinical practice is a demanding academic activity for nursing students, and a variety of factors can affect this perception. This study aimed to investigate the predictors of perceived stress among Indonesian nursing students during their clinical practice.

From September to November 2022, this cross-sectional investigation was carried out. Five questionnaires, including the socio-demographic, the PSS, the GHQ, the CBI, the MSPSS and the RSES, were completed by 208 participants. With significance set to p < 0.05, the Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were carried out.

Coping strategies (r = 0.20, p < 0.01), overall health (r = 0.50, p < 0.01), social support (r = -0.34, p < 0.01) and self-esteem (r = -0.51, p < 0.01) were all substantially linked with perceived stress. Furthermore, age (β = -0.22, p < 0.001), coping style (β = 0.22, p < 0.001) and self-esteem (β = -0.42, p < 0.001) substantially predicted perceived stress among nursing students.

The study's findings revealed strong relationships between perceived stress and general health, coping mechanisms, self-esteem and social support. These results can be utilised as evidence to help educators and other stakeholders develop programmes that effectively manage stress among nursing students during their clinical rotations.