ความเครียด Factors Associated with Stress and Stress Management Among Nursing Students Practicing in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

This descriptive correlational research aimed to investigate two aspects of nursing students: 1) the study of stress and stress management, and 2) the exploration of the relationships between academic achievement, environmental factors, and stress management. The study involved 42 third-year Bachelor of Nursing students selected through simple randomization with exclusion criteria. Data collection occurred between April to June 2023. The data was collected by using expert-audited questionnaires including the 1) personal information sheet, 2) nursing practice in the neonatal intensive care unit-related questionnaire, and the 3) stress and 4) stress management during such practice questionnaires. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients showed the confidence levels of the questionnaires for numbers 2 to 4 were 0.99, 0.91 and 0.97, respectively, achieving an average objective score of 1 for the entire set. Additionally, an academic achievement record form was utilized. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and Pearson's correlation coefficients.

Results indicated a statistically significant correlation between academic achievement and lower stress levels during nursing practice in the neonatal intensive care unit (p < .05). Moreover, factors such as relationships with teachers, practice environment, and overall factors demonstrated a statistically significant negative correlations with stress (p < .01). Notably, factors including practical teaching and learning, teaching behavior of in-service teachers/nurse mentors, relationships with teachers and friends, workplace/environment, and overall factors displayed statistically significant positive associations with stress management (p < .01). In conclusion, proficient and competent in-service teachers and nurse mentors and fostering positive learning environments play crucial roles in enhancing students' well-being and promoting effective stress management.