The effect of work stress, workload and social support on nurses' self-perceptions of parenting roles during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to investigate the effects of workload, work stress and social support on nurses' self-perceptions regarding their parenting roles in the Covid-19 pandemic and to examine the effect of nurse parents' sociodemographic characteristics on work stress and workload during the Covid-19 pandemic. Background: The Covid-19 pandemic has brought many challenges in the lives of nurses who are fighting at the forefront of the pandemic. Methods: One hundred ninety-eight nurse parents participated in the study conducted with a relational study design using an online questionnaire spread through social networks. ‘The Nurse Parents Descriptive Information Form’, ‘The Swedish Demand-Control-Support Questionnaire (DCSQ)’ and ‘The Self-Perception of Parental Role Scale (SPPR)’ were used for the study data. Results: A total of 90.9% of the participants are women. A significant difference was found between the spouse's job and the work stress and the work stress and workload (p <.05). Conclusions: Participants working during the day experienced less work stress and workload than those working at night. Working in the pandemic unit has increased work stress and workload. Implications for Nursing Management: Nurse managers need to plan supportive approach activities so that nurses can use effective methods to manage work stress and heavy workload. In addition, nurse managers should pay attention to developing qualified care and treatment skills in crises such as pandemics, where the workload increases tremendously. © 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.