Perceived level and sources of stress in beginning Bachelor of Nursing students

Abstract

As a result of concern for beginning students whose stress appeared unusually high, this study investigated the perceived level and sources of stress in beginning Bachelor of Nursing students. Sixty-three first year nursing students at a provincial New Zealand Polytechnic participated in the study. Using a descriptive correlation design, methodological triangulation was obtained from data collected using a profile sheet which identified demographic details, and the two pan Beck Srivatava Stress Index (BSSI). The findings indicate the main sources of stress ate related to programme requirements such as: examinations and assessments, amount and difficulty of class work, study hours and lack of free time, fear of failure, increased responsibility, class room atmosphere, and the response of the department administrators to students. Other sources of concern that contributed to stress included financial and personal factors. Measures of stress were high, suggesting problematic stress levels. Demographic variables such as age and entry qualifications were found to influence stress, with mature students and those without secondary school qualifications having higher stress levels. The positive aspects of the student role identified by the participants provide a basis for recommendations that could be implemented in nursing programmes to minimise the stress experience for beginning nursing students. These recommendations focus on curriculum review and evaluation, fostering and enhancing skills acquisition in students, maximising interpersonal strengths of students, and support for and recognition of financial and personal factors that can influence stress and the ultimate success of the student.