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Experiences of nurses regarding work-related stress in the oncology department of a tertiary care private hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
Abstract
Nurses working in oncology environments face the possibility of experiencing work-related stress. This study was a qualitative exploration of oncology nurses’ perspectives regarding stress they experienced in an oncology inpatient unit in Pakistan. Thematic analysis of the nine in-depth interviews revealed three themes: work-related stress, impact of stress, and mitigation strategies. The nurses experienced stress related to patients, primarily because of the lengthy hospitalizations, poor prognoses, and observing the suffering on a daily and long-term basis. Organizational stress was experienced because of turnover rates, patient/nurse ratios, and the need for organizational supports. Strategies to support nurses include debriefing session after difficult situations and educational sessions regarding coping and adaptation.
DOI:10.5737/23688076355694
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