Date of Award

Spring 4-27-2018

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

First Advisor

Dr. Sheryl Winn

Second Advisor

Dr. Sarah Handwerker

Third Advisor

Dr. Lucy LeClerc

Abstract

Nurse's Health and Professional Quality of Life

Abstract

This study investigated relationships between general health (GH), professional quality of life (PQL) and perceived stress (PS) of nurses at a 382-bed southeastern hospital.

Background: Several studies showed that GH and PQL are associated. The health, quality of life, and perceived stress of nurses was a growing concern in the hospital. Nurse leaders needed data to inform evidence-based efforts to promote nurse health and improve quality of life while reducing stress.

Design: This cross-sectional correlation study measured GH, PQL, and PS using four validated and reliable instruments: The Medical Outcomes Short Form (SF-12), the Professional Quality of Life scale (ProQOL), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and the Pittsburgh Quality Sleep Index (PQSI). Descriptive data was gathered based on associations found in the literature. Relationships between variables were tested using multiple regression.

Discussion: This study found several significant relationships between general health, quality of life, stress, and sleep for nurses, however, there was no correlation between physical health and all other health indicators. Data provided nurse leaders with evidence to inform targeted interventions based on needs of nurses employed at this hospital. Generalization is limited but provides a foundation for future research and can inform efforts at hospitals of similar size and scope.

Key words: compassion fatigue, health, professional quality of life, nurses, perceived stress, sleep quality

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Nursing Commons

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