Title

Parenting Stress, Self-efficacy and COVID-19 Health Risks as Predictors of General Stress Among Nurses

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-2021

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of the study was to examine the influence of parenting stress, self-efficacy and COVID-19 health risks on general stress among nurses in the Midwest, United States, during the pandemic. Background: As frontline workers amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, nurses have been subject to stressors at home and at work. Method: This quantitative, cross-sectional study included 896 nurses with at least one child below 18 years of age. Using purposive sampling, participants answered an online survey composed of demographic questions, perception of COVID-19 health risks, measures of self-efficacy, general stress and parenting stress. Bivariate correlation and multiple regression were conducted. Data were collected from July 13 to August 13, 2020. Results: The four predictors, along with eight demographic covariates, accounted for 40% of the variance in general stress. Parenting stress and COVID-19 health risks were positively related to general stress, while self-efficacy was negatively associated with general stress. Conclusions: Results highlight the negative influence of parenting stress on nurses' general stress and the importance of self-efficacy in reducing stress. Findings suggest that support services for nurses should focus not only on work-related stressors but also consider parenting stressors, work-home imbalances and self-efficacy.

Publication Title

International Journal of Nursing Practice

DOI of Published Version

10.1111/ijn.13009

COinS