AIM: To identify factors that contribute to stress in Australian nurses, consider the coping strategies they use and examine the effects of stressors on nurses' health and well-being. BACKGROUND: Stress is a major concern in the nursing profession with work overload, nurse shortages and high turnover rates as the common stressors. Although nursing stress has been studied extensively, there is a lack of clarity on the nursing situation in Australia. METHODS: A systematic review of the current literature was conducted on stress and coping strategies within the Australian nursing population. RESULTS: Stressors included work overload, role conflicts and experiences of aggression. Coping strategies included seeking support, problem solving and self-control. The majority of the studies reported detrimental effects on nurses' physical and mental well-being with little consideration given to the spillover effects of nursing work stress to their family and social relationships. CONCLUSION: Recommendations included factoring in personal and work stresses, promoting the use of effective coping strategies and maintaining supportive social relationships.
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