Recommended Citation
Walker M, Tuzik Micek W. The psychological effects of COVID-19 on pediatric frontline nurses. Research poster presented at Nursing Passion: Re-Igniting the Art & Science, Advocate Aurora Health Nursing & Research Conference 2022; November 9, 2022; virtual.
Presentation Notes
Research poster presented at Nursing Passion: Re-Igniting the Art & Science, Advocate Aurora Health Nursing & Research Conference 2022; November 9, 2022; virtual.
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 affected children with lower rates of infections. However, the uncertainties pediatric nurses faced were similar and yet different from nurses caring exclusively for adults.
Purpose:
1) Describe the characteristics, work experiences, coping strategies and psychological effects experienced by nurses during the initial COVID-19 outbreak.
2) Identify factors associated with negative psychological effects in nurses.
Method: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional examination of nurses practicing in two pediatric campuses. Nurse participants were recruited via an e-mail message including a link to the electronic survey. A revised self-reported 96-item Health Care Worker Impact survey measuring seven domains was chosen to assess perceptions of risk to self and others, confidence in infection control information, impact on personal/work life and depressive symptoms. Validated scales were included to evaluate the psychological effects of COVID-19: Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R), Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Demographic data were also included.
Results: Most participants were white, female, married, aged 26-35 years, and working full-time. Pediatric nurses reported family health, personal health and child/elder care were the highest personal stressors prior to COVID-19. Pediatric nurses scores were not different from nurses caring exclusively for adults. Results are as follow: PHQ-9 – Campus A mean=4.92 (n=71, Range 0-23, SD 5.44)=Mild range; PHQ-9 – Campus B mean=6.31 (n=41, Range 0-26, SD 5.29)=Mild; GAD-7 – Campus A mean=4.20, n=71, Range 0-18, SD 4.6)=Normal; GAD-7 – Campus B mean=6.0 (n=49, Range 0-21, SD 5.0)=Mild; IES – Campus A mean=17.0 (n=73, Range, 0-61, SD 14.85 )=Mild; IES – Campus B mean=22.08 (n=49, Range 0-62, SD 14.9)=Mild.
Discussion: The COVID-19 pandemic-imposed stressors and the results suggest that pediatric nurses experienced similar levels of depression, anxiety, and distress as adult nurses.
Implications for Practice: Short and long-term interventions should target nurses regardless of patient population. Support needs are broad but a focus on healthy coping strategies and peer support should be prioritized.
Document Type
Poster
Affiliations
Advocate Children’s Hospital, Oak Lawn and Park Ridge