Post-traumatic stress disorder in nurses in the United States: Prevalence and effect on role.

AIMS The purpose of this study is to determine the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among US nurses, and to examine how severity of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms are associated with their role. BACKGROUND The lifetime prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder is estimated at 6.8%. Loss of workdays, inability to perform at full capacity and loss of fulfillment are a few of the issues associated with an individual diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Untreated consequences include early retirement, loss of job, disability and suicide. METHOD Participants completed an online survey which included the 20-item post-traumatic stress disorder checklist-5. RESULTS Severity of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms among nurses estimates that 28.4% have a probable diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder with 15.4% experiencing severe symptoms. The impact of stress was negative job performance impacting mental fatigue and workplace attrition. Coping skills included mindfulness and utilizing social networks. CONCLUSIONS Nurses are exposed to traumatic experiences which has an impact on their mental health and wellbeing and ability to successfully perform their jobs. The impact of these experiences is not differentiated by demographic correlates. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT This highlights multiple modifiable factors that impact the severity of stressful experiences. Addressing environmental, organizational and intrapersonal changes are key components in alleviating the negative impact experienced by nurses.