Nursing is an incredibly rewarding profession, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding, especially for new nurses. In this article, we’ll discuss the various sources of stress that new nurses may encounter in their jobs and provide strategies and self-care techniques to manage stress, avoid burnout, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

In our Nurse Insights series, experienced nurses offer an insider’s perspective on the nursing profession by addressing common questions, challenges, and triumphs of their careers.

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Understanding the Sources of Stress in Nursing

One of the challenges you may encounter in your job as a newly hired registered nurse (RN) is handling the stress related to the long working hours, volume of duties, and emotional expectations inherent in this profession. Additionally, you may encounter interpersonal difficulties with coworkers, management, patients, or family members that provide a source of stress.

Long Working Hours

As a nurse, you’ll often find yourself working extended hours that can result in both physical and emotional fatigue. The American Nurses Association (ANA) found that over 50% of nurses regularly work extra time. Coping with prolonged standing and performing intricate procedures can take a toll on your physical health. Furthermore, attempting to balance personal life with erratic work schedules can add another layer of stress.

Work Overload

The sheer volume of work is yet another stressor. Overseeing multiple patients, ensuring correct medication management, preparing patient reports, and managing admission and discharge processes, among other duties, can lead to feelings of overwhelming responsibility. The more overloaded you feel, the higher the chances of experiencing burnout.

Emotional Requirements of the Job

Nursing is a profession that requires not just physical endurance, but also emotional resilience. Regularly witnessing suffering, dealing with grieving families, providing end-of-life care, or even dealing with patient death can lead to emotional strain if not effectively managed. This condition, known as “compassion fatigue,” often results in nurses feeling helpless, isolated, and ultimately detached from their emotional selves.

Interpersonal Challenges

Occasionally you might encounter situations involving conflicts with colleagues, management, or patients’ families that can bring about stress. Such confrontations can harm your self-esteem, lower your morale, and worsen job satisfaction.

Administrative Pressures

Administrative pressures, including paperwork, compliance with protocols, and updating patient records, can produce stress, especially when these duties detract from patient care time. To manage these stressors, it’s important to practice self-care techniques, maintain a support network, and make use of organizational resources for stress management when they are available. Everyone’s capacity to handle stress is different. Recognizing your limits and seeking appropriate help when you need it is not a sign of weakness but a crucial part of being a good nurse. Your overall well-being ultimately determines the quality of patient care you are able to provide.