A cross-section study: secondary traumatic stress in emergency department nurses in Alberta

Abstract

Death, trauma, violence, and heavy workloads are regular occurrences that contribute to the stressful emergency department (ED). Repeated exposure to these stressors may result in secondary traumatic stress (STS). This thesis includes a literature review on the current evidence on traumatic stress in ED nurses, a study (1) measuring prevalence of STS in ED nurses in Alberta and associated factors, and a study (2) that validates the secondary traumatic stress scale (STSS) as a screening tool among ED nurses. Limited research exists in Canada on STS, with inconsistent findings of factors associated with STS (literature review). ED nurses in Alberta are experiencing significant STS, with support and hours worked being associated with STS (study 1). The STSS when used appropriately is a valuable tool for use among ED nurses (study 2). These findings all highlight the occupational hazard that STS is and will inform future research, nurses, and organizations.