The Relationship Between Social Support, Fear, and Psychological Distress Among Frontline Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Indonesia

J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv. 2023 May;61(5):53-58. doi: 10.3928/02793695-20221122-03. Epub 2023 Feb 1.

Abstract

The current cross-sectional study aimed to examine the relationship between social support, fear, and psychological distress among frontline nurses during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Participants from 20 wards for adult patients from public and private hospitals in Indonesia were recruited. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale, Job Stress Scale, and Perceived Social Support Questionnaire were used to measure outcomes of interest. Questionnaires were completed by a total of 211 nurses. High risk working unit, higher fear score, younger age, less working experience, and less social support were significant influences on nurses' psychological distress. Social support as a modifiable factor is a potential target for intervention strategies to manage psychological issues among nurses. Findings can help policymakers and managers better understand how to support frontline nurses' psychological health and maintain well-engaged nursing staff. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 61(5), 53-58.].

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • COVID-19*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Fear
  • Humans
  • Indonesia / epidemiology
  • Nurses*
  • Nursing Staff, Hospital* / psychology
  • Pandemics
  • Psychological Distress*
  • Social Support