739, p=0.009, e?=0.727). This study clearly highlighted that sleep shortage and work fatigue poses a threat to patient safety and that nurse self-care is warranted.[Dorrian et.al, (2006)]
Nurse Support Services
An earlier Australian study by Moore KA (2001) which observed 201 nurses working in three different hospitals had concluded that organizational restructuring policies and the consequent work overload was a high stressor for nurses and this was made worse by the poor communication style (top -- down approach instead of consultative style) that only contributed more to nurse burnout. [Moore KA, (2001)]. Given the high levels of occupational stress and burnout among nurses, it is important that nurse self-care interventions are prioritized. A recent literature review on the subject of work stress and coping methods among Australian nurses revealed that 'work load ', 'role conflict' and 'expression of aggression' were the three main stressors. The literature study also revealed 'seeking support', 'problem solving' and 'self-control' as the three important coping strategies. [Lim et.al, (2010) ] Other studies and reviews point out that 'nurse empowerment' had a strong positive effect on job satisfaction and less emotional exhaustion. Similarly studies also suggest that strong social support in the form of effective interpersonal communication with co-workers and managers help to reduce job stress. [Bonnie M. Jennings, (2008)]
Conclusion
Nursing shortage is fast becoming an international health issue. In Australia too, the demand for nurses is on the rise resulting in overworking and overloaded nurses and a consequent increase in occupational stress...
Despite growing evidence, the support services available for nurses are minimum and only slowly improving. An organizational climate that encourages participative management, nurse empowerment and caters to their educational and professional needs is vital to reduce the turnover rates among nurses. It is high time that health care organizations take a new perspective. 'Nurse self-care' including social support services, regulated working hours and academic programs are indispensable to avoid environmental stress which could otherwise compromise the quality of health care provision.
Bibliography
1) Linda H. Aiken, 'Image of Nursing Global Trends', retrieved Sep 4th 2010, from, http://www.fpnl.co.za/downloads/Presentations/Presentations/Prof%20Linda%20Aiken%20-%20Image%20of%20Nursing%20-%20Global%20Trends.pdf
2) Jillian Dorrian, Nicole Lamond & Cameron Van del Heuvel et.al (Oct 2006), 'A Pilot study of the Safety Implications of Australian Nurses' Sleep and Working Hours', Chronobiology International, Vol 23, Issue 6, pg 1149-1163
3) Lim J, BOGOSSIAN F. & AHERN K. (2010), ' Stress and coping in Australian nurses: a systematic review. International Nursing Review 57, 22-31
4) Moore KA, (2001), 'Hospital restructuring: impact on nurses mediated by social
Support and a perception of Challenge', J Health Hum Serv Adm. Spring;23(4):490-517.
5) Bonnie M. Jennings, (2008), 'Patient Safety and Quality: An Evidence-Based Handbook for Nurses: Chapter 26. Work stress and Burnout among Nurses ', retrieved Sept 4th 2010, from, http://www.ahrq.gov/qual/nurseshdbk/docs/JenningsB_WEWCN.pdf
