Jundishapur Journal of Physiology

Jundishapur Journal of Physiology

Anxiety and Resilience in Nurses Caring for COVID-19 Patients: A cross-sectional study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Centre, Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 Department of Managment, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, Islamic Azad University, kerman, Iran
3 Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant psychological strain on healthcare workers, particularly nurses. Resilience, as a dynamic process, enables individuals to exhibit positive adaptive behaviors in challenging situations. This study aimed to assess the relationship between anxiety and resilience among nurses caring for COVID-19 patients.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 and included 100 nurses from various hospital wards treating COVID-19 patients. Participants were selected using simple and convenience sampling methods. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire comprising demographic information, the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 18, employing descriptive statistics (frequency, mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Pearson correlation test).
Results: The mean age of participants was 34.6 ± 8.19 years, with an average work experience of 11.33 ± 8.55 years. Among them, 42% were male, and 58% were female. Most nurses were married (65%) and held a bachelor's degree in nursing (67%). The mean anxiety score was 17.12 ± 7.8, indicating moderate anxiety levels. The mean resilience score was 50.37 ± 7.86. A statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between anxiety and resilience (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Findings suggest a relationship between anxiety and resilience among nurses. Given the moderate anxiety levels observed, strategies such as workload reduction, enhanced supervision, and psychological support programs are recommended. Additionally, promoting physical well-being can help strengthen nurses' resilience.
Keywords