Interventions for reducing post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms among nurses: A systematic review

Nurses often experience traumatic events in high-pressure clinical environments. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can negatively affect emotional well-being, concentration, clinical judgment, and workforce stability among nurses.

To assess the effectiveness of various psychological and behavioral interventions designed to reduce PTSD and related symptoms among nurses.

A literature search across five databases identified 24 eligible studies. Effect-direction plots and one-sided binomial sign tests were used to examine the consistency and significance of intervention effects.

Psychological interventions, particularly combining cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based approaches, significantly improved nurses' PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Digital health interventions became increasingly common during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, individual-focused interventions showed inconsistent effects on burnout, stress, and resilience, highlighting the need for organizational-level strategies alongside psychological support.

Health care organizations should integrate psychological intervention programs into routine services and offer both in-person and digital options to maximize accessibility and effectiveness.