Stress And Coping Strategies Among Baccalaureate Nursing Students in Clinical Practices A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the knowledge of nurses regarding the care of geriatric patients, focusing on their
understanding of geriatric-specific health issues, best practices in care, and communication strategies.
Background: Clinical training is an essential part of nursing education, enabling students to develop
practical skills and professional competence. However, nursing students often experience stress during
clinical practice due to workload, unfamiliar environments, fear of errors, and patient care responsibilities.
Excessive stress can negatively affect learning outcomes and overall well-being. To cope with these
challenges, students use various coping strategies such as seeking support, problem-solving, and stress
management techniques. Understanding stress levels and coping mechanisms among baccalaureate nursing
students is important for improving clinical education and promoting student success.
Methodology: A cross-sectional investigation into nurses' care of elderly patients was carried out in
Sandeman Provincial Hospital Quetta. The study spanned a period of three months 07 April to 03 July, during
which data was collected from a total of 283 participants, selected through random sampling techniques.
Information was gathered utilizing a validated questionnaire adapted for this study's purposes.
Results: In total, 282 nurses were part of the study. A majority (56%) of the participants was 158 female, and
152 nurses 54% were under the age of 30. Patients can be reduced by orienting them to the hospital
environment and explaining diagnostic procedures to patients and their relatives. In contrast, 22% suggested
that elderly patients should remain quiet and not disturb others, while 8% believed no explanations are
necessary for geriatric patients.
Regarding knowledge of geriatric care, the majority of nursing staff (171 nurses) had an average level of
knowledge. Additionally, 29.8% demonstrated poor knowledge, 8.5% had good knowledge, and only 1.1%
showed excellent knowledge related to elderly patient care.
Overall, the findings indicate moderate knowledge among nursing staff and emphasize the importance of
communication and patient education in reducing anxiety among geriatric patients
Conclusion: The findings of the study indicated that nurses had a moderate level of knowledge concerning
the care of elderly patients. However, specific areas for improvement in nurses' education have been
identified. Consequently, there is a pressing need for the development and implementation of strategies aimed
at enhancing nurses' knowledge regarding the care of elderly patients.