The paradox of anxiety to growth-a multi-center cohort investigation of the relationship between nurse' anxiety physical, mental stress and post-traumatic growth levels during COVID 19

Shafran-Tikva S, Alon R, Lerman Y and Benbenishty J

Published on: 2023-08-10

Abstract

Many nurses felt overwhelming mental and physical symptoms during the COVID 19 pandemic. Is there a possibility that professional growth may also occur as a result of working during this stressful period. The aim of this study was to compare the relationship between level of anxiety, physical, mental stress and posttraumatic growth symptoms among nurses working in multi-center hospitals. This was a prospective, quantitative cohort, convenience sampling of nurses during 2021. Questionnaires included; COVID 19 stress score, Post traumatic growth inventory and socio-demographic questions. The sample included 536 nurses (86.7% females), average age of 45.15 years. Average anxiety level was 3.84, physical symptoms 1.15 (sd 1.75) and mental symptoms 1.63 (sd 1.97). The Post traumatic growth was 2.83 (sd1.65). Post- traumatic growth had a positive correlation with physical symptoms (r = .17, p < .01), but it was not correlated with mental symptoms. For nurses to grow after traumatic situations in health organizations, it is important to reinforce the sources of nurses' strength. Our research demonstrates that organizations may need to develop a social support system among peers that will enable shared growth. The relevance of these results is that there may be professional growth as a result of caring for COVID 19 patients. This knowledge may assist nurses and leaders in finding positive perspectives and preparing future nurses to work in crisis situations. in nurses' working during crisis periods. No Patient or Public Contribution-this study was performed during COVID 19 pandemic under isolations restrictions, contact with the public was limited.