| Learning Objective #1: Recognize the sources of stress experienced by Lebanese BS nursing students | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Identify the differences in stress experiences between junior and senior nursing students |
Introduction: Stress experiences may interfere with the learning process in nursing students, and may put students at risk for physical or psychological problems. The complex nature of the nursing profession places unique demands and challenges on students in dealing with patients. Purpose: This study investigated the levels and sources of stress as perceived by Junior and Senior Bachelor of Science Nursing Students at the American University of Beirut, School of Nursing. Method: A descriptive survey design was used. Twenty-eight Junior and 33 senior nursing students from a Bachelor degree program completed the Beck Srivastava Stress Inventory (BSSI) and the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ). Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, t-tests, content analysis, measures of correlation, and analysis of variance. Findings: Results showed that the students experienced high levels of stress in Junior and Senior years; however, the stress scores were comparable across the two years. Findings also showed that the students experienced high levels of physiological and psychological symptoms. A moderate association was found between stress levels and health status (r = .54, p < 0.001). The main sources of stress identified in this study were related to academic expectations, clinical experience, and interpersonal relationships. Conclusion: The study findings suggest that nurse educators need to look at the stress experienced by students and plan appropriate intervention strategies accordingly. Areas of consideration include adequate planning of course assignments, providing timely feedback on performance, and providing a supportive environment during clinical experiences.
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