Exploring the Causes and Effects of Nurses Suffering in the Healthcare System

Abstract

Chronic and sustained suffering among nurses working in the healthcare system is common. This has implications for the whole healthcare system, with potential negative effects on patient experience and safety. In addition to professional impact, suffering is also detrimental to personal well-being. Understanding why nurses suffer and the impact of this form of stress on them is necessary if resources for psychological therapies are to be used effectively to counteract it. This, however, is a neglected area of inquiry, with most research in this field investigating levels and causes of burnout. This study encompasses quantitative and qualitative evaluations of 58 acute hospital nurses' accord, testing relationships between workplace stress and ward climate with outcome measures such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Results were triangulated with data from in-depth semi-structured interviews to establish a comprehensive understanding.