Evaluation of Resilience and Stress Coping Styles of Primary Care Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the resilience, stress levels, coping styles, and the impact of related factors among nurses working in primary healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed as a cross-sectional study, the research included 86 volunteer nurses employed in primary healthcare institutions in Bitlis provincial center and its districts in Turkey. Data were collected between March and June 2022 using a sociodemographic information form, the Resilience Scale for Adults, and the Ways of Coping Questionnaire. The results showed that the mean scores of the resilience and stress-coping scales were significantly influenced by the educational and economic status of the nurses. A positive but weak correlation was observed between resilience and the self-confidence and optimistic approach subscales of the Ways of Coping Questionnaire. In contrast, a negative but weak correlation was found between resilience and the helpless and submissive approach subscales. The study revealed an association between resilience levels and stress-coping styles among nurses. Nurses with higher levels of education and income demonstrated greater resilience, while those with lower levels of education and income tended to use passive coping styles. The study recommends intervention programs to increase nurses' psychological resilience and promote effective stress-coping methods. Further research is suggested across professions, institutions, cities, and countries to explore differences in primary care during the COVID-19 pandemic.