Abstract
Internationally, nursing training varies significantly, noting differences in degree programmes, clinical hours, and expectations. This study explores the perceived stress experienced by pre-registration Bachelor's and pre-registration Master's nursing students in New Zealand. While stress in the nursing workplace and clinical environments is well-documented for undergraduates, there is limited research of the stress that pre-registration Master's students have experienced. This study aims to seek out the unique stressors for Master's students, taking into account their older age and prior undergraduate Education. Understanding these stressors can guide the development of focused support systems and strategies for retention within nursing programmes, fundamentally enabling a healthier and more successful workforce in New Zealand.
Question: How does the perception of stress differ between student nurses in a Bachelor's programme and student nurses in a pre-registration Master's programme in New Zealand?
Methodology: This study employed a quantitative cross-sectional methodology to examine the perception of stress levels among student nurses from two New Zealand universities during May 2023 to June 2023. A validated measurement tool, the Student Nurse Stress Index, was used to gauge stress levels. Stress levels between Bachelor and Master of Nursing students were compared using statistical tests. Minimal differences were found in stress levels between the two groups, suggesting that both programmes experience similar stress. The academic rigour of the study was enhanced by the student sample, contributing to its relevance to nursing programmes throughout New Zealand. The researcher secured ethics and Māori consultation approval to ensure ethical and non-discriminatory practices.
Results: A thorough analysis of the characteristics and experiences of a diverse sample of nursing students is presented in this study. The participants demographic data, academic levels, gender, ethnicity, and age The perception of Stress Between Bachelor of Nursing Students and Pre-registration Master of Nursing Students were investigated. The study discovered that most of the students were in their third year of a Bachelor's degree, with females overly represented compared to males. The largest ethnic group identified were New Zealand Europeans, though Māori, Pasifika, and Asians were also evident.
The study showed some significant differences in stress levels between students in the two different programmes promoting potential hardships faced by undergraduates. The university's response to student needs was validated, allowing student requirements to be addressed with targeted strategies. However, further research and validation is necessary to deduce conclusive findings concerning other factors and ethnic demographics.
Conclusion: This study evaluated differences in nursing programmes nationally. Regardless of differences, the goal is to create skilled and culturally safe registered nurses. New Zealand's nursing education is challenged due to stress affecting retention. Strategies need to be in place to support students and encourage inclusivity for a robust nursing workforce and improved patient care, as well as further research conducted to validate results.