Date of Award
3-4-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Science in Nursing (MScN)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Dr. Laila Ladak
Department
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Pakistan
Abstract
Introduction: Pediatric oncology nurses in Pakistan are at the forefront of caring for young cancer patients. In Pakistan, thousands of children are diagnosed with cancer every year, however the country's healthcare system lacks a comprehensive National cancer registry. Pediatric oncology nurses face high stress levels due to the demanding nature of their work, lack of specialized training, and communication challenges with patients and families. This study aims to explore the prevalence of stress and its predictors among these nurses in Pakistan, addressing a significant research gap.
Purpose: The purpose for the study was to measure stress and identify its predictors among pediatric oncology nurses in Pakistan.
Methodology: This study utilized an analytical cross-sectional design to examine stress levels and stressors among pediatric oncology nurses in various hospitals across Pakistan. The study was conducted in pediatric oncology units of hospitals registered with the Pakistan Society of Pediatric Oncology (PSPO). The study population included approximately 150 nurses from 15 different hospitals, with a total population sampling strategy employed. Data collection occurred between July and September 2023, with the data analyzed using SPSS 21.0 using descriptive and inferential statistics. Ethical considerations, including consent and data privacy, were carefully managed to ensure participant well-being.
Findings: This study enrolled 108 pediatric oncology nurses from various hospitals in Pakistan, most were female (64.8%) with a mean age 30.78 ± 5.4, and 57% were married. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) showed moderate stress levels mean score of 21.12 ± 4.6, with 8.3% having low stress, 78.7% moderate stress, and 13% severe stress. Stressor assessment using the Stress Scale for Pediatric Oncology Nurses (SSPON) revealed the highest stress related to "knowing what is ahead" (mean 73.49), "limitation of care" (mean 73.36), and "system demands" (mean 71.43). "Co-worker" stressors scored lowest (mean 70.53). Gender had significant statistical association with stress levels (p=0.01) and stressors (p=0.05), while other socio-demographic factors showed no significant statistical association.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study underscores the prevalence of moderate to high stress levels among pediatric oncology nurses in Pakistan. It specifically underscores the stressor common among pediatric oncology nurses of Pakistan that were stressor related to knowing what is ahead and limitation to care. To alleviate stress among pediatric oncology nurses in Pakistan, organizational measures include implementing support programs, stress management training, and regular health assessments. Personal strategies involve sensitizing nurses to mental health, encouraging support-seeking, and educating them on effective coping mechanisms. These recommendations aim to create a supportive environment and enhance the well-being of nurses by addressing both organizational and personal aspects of stress management.
Recommended Citation
Anwarali, S. (2024). The prevalence of stress and stressors among pediatric oncology nurses working in pediatric oncology units in Pakistan - An analytical cross-sectional study (Unpublished master's dissertation). Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.