Effects of Anxiety, Resilience, and Self-efficacy on the Professional Competence of Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the relationship of the COVID-19-related anxiety, self-efficacy, resilience, and professional competence of nurses working in hospitals where COVID-19 patients are hospitalized. Additionally, this study attempted to identify factors that affect the professional competence of nurses. Using a cross-sectional descriptive study design, an online survey of 120 nurses working at hospitals where COVID-19 patients were hospitalized was conducted between February 9 and February 19, 2021. Pearson's correlations were used to assess correlations between the main variables, and stepwise multiple regression was used to identify factors influencing professional competence. Results of the study showed that the professional competence of nurses was positively correlated with self-efficacy (r =.58, p <.001) and resilience (r =.56, p <.001). The correlation between professional competence and COVID-related anxiety was not significant (r =-.03, p =.766). Factors affecting professional competence included self-efficacy (β=.36, p =.004) and resilience (β=28, p =.021). The model explained approximately 35% of the variance in nurse professional competence (F=33.65, p <.001). To fully demonstrate the professional competence of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, institution-based programs should be developed and applied to improve their self-efficacy and resilience. In order to prevent the burnout of nurses in the longer-than-expected COVID-19 pandemic, efforts and policies at the nursing organization level are needed to systematically manage and monitor self-efficacy and resilience of nurses.