The Relationship Between Perceived Comfort Level with Moral Sensitivity and Moral Distress Among Oncology Nurses: A Descriptive Correlational Study

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between perceived comfort level with moral distress and moral sensitivity among oncology nurses

Methods

This is a descriptive-correlational study on 210 oncology nurses. The samples were selected through the convenience method from September 2020 to February 2022 in the oncology centers of Ahvaz, Iran. Data were collected via a demographic form, Lutzen's Modified Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire, Corley's Moral Distress Scale, and Kolcaba's Nurses Comfort Questionnaire (NCQ). Data were analyzed using SPSS V24, descriptive statistics, Independent t, Mann-Whitney-U, Kruskal-Wallis, Pearson's correlation coefficient, ANOVA, and linear regression tests.

Results

Nurses experienced a moderate level of perceived comfort (67.91 ± 8.75), moral sensitivity (58.4 ± 13.3), and moral distress (57.54.8 ± 8.9). Moral sensitivity was significantly inversely related to the intensity of moral distress (P < .001). A statistically significant relationship was found between nurses' perceived comfort level with frequency of distress (P < .001) and moral sensitivity (P = .046). Moral distress explained 13.8% of changes in perceived comfort level (R2 = 0.138, F = 6.51, sig < 0.001, R = 0.371).

Conclusion

Nurses’ perceived comfort level, moral sensitivity, and moral distress were at a moderate level and intercorrelated. It is suggested that factors contributing to moral distress should be eliminated. Also, moral sensitivity should be refined as a decisive factor.

Implication for Nursing Practice

Oncology nurses are exposed to morally distressing situations that may be a source of discomfort. This study guides nurses, managers, planners, and policymakers to identify the contributing factors and use strategies and solutions to enhance nurses' perceived comfort level.