Korean J Occup Health Nurs.  2022 Nov;31(4):147-156. 10.5807/kjohn.2022.31.4.147.

Influence of COVID-19-related Nursing Experience on Job Stress of Nurses

• Kim YH
• Joo HS
• Lee JE
• Lee MS

• KMID: 2537024
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5807/kjohn.2022.31.4.147

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to compare and analyze the job stress of nurses with and without in COVID-19-related work.
Methods
A structured self-reported questionnaire survey was conducted to assess job stress. The extent of job stress was compared between nurses with COVID-19 (COVID-19 group) and those without such experience (non-COVID-19 group). Multiple regression analysis was performed to identify the factors influencing job stress.
Results
Job stress was higher in the COVID-19 group compared to the non-COVID-19 group (t=2.54, p=.12). In sub-categorical comparison, stress driven by a taxing work environment, relationship conflict, and work schedule was higher in the COVID-19 group than the non-COVID-19 group. Multiple regression analysis revealed the job stress was higher among nurses with COVID-19-related work experience than that of non-experienced nurses. The factors affecting job stress of nurses with COVID-19-related work experience included emergency room work, providing nursing assistant for COVID-patients, and caring for these patients.
Conclusion
Since COVID-19-related work experience is a major factor that affects nurses' job stress, it is imperative to provide various support measures for nursing assistants such as providing a break from working in an environment with high risk of infection, adjusting work schedules, resolving conflicts between personnel, and securing support.

Keyword

COVID-19; Job stress; Nurses