Navigating the New Normal: A Study on Junior Nursing Students’ Stress Perception and Coping Mechanisms in Post-Pandemic Hospital Learning

Abstract

Background: This study delves into the clinical stress experienced by junior nursing students during their initial hospital-related learning experiences (RLE), exploring the relationship between coping strategies and stress alongside demographic variables. Purpose: The primary objective was to examine the stress levels of 152 regular junior nursing students and assess how coping mechanisms vary based on demographic factors. The study aimed to shed light on the predominant stressors and coping strategies prevalent in this cohort. Methods: A sequential mixed-method approach was employed, utilizing a tool adapted from Sheu (1997; 2002). The tool included a demographic information sheet, Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Coping Behavior Inventory (CBI), and semi-structured interview questions. Data were collected from a diverse group of nursing students, encompassing aspects such as sex, age, socioeconomic status, stressors, and coping strategies. Results: The study revealed a predominantly female (84.7%) student body with an average age of 21, and approximately 38% hailing from middle-income households. Key stressors included concerns about assignments, workload, daily life stressors, and perceived inadequacy in professional knowledge and skills. Coping mechanisms predominantly involved maintaining optimism and engaging in problem-solving. Importantly, demographic variables such as sex, age, and socioeconomic status did not show statistically significant distinctions in clinical stress perception. Conclusions: Junior nursing students generally experience moderate stress levels, primarily attributed to assignments, workloads, daily life, and perceived deficits in professional knowledge and skills. Notably, maintaining optimism, problem-solving, and seeking support through transference were identified as prevalent coping mechanisms. The study emphasizes the need for prioritizing stress management support and implementing stress reduction strategies within nursing programs to enhance the well-being of junior nursing students during their initial hospital-related learning experiences.