A cross-sectional study of posttraumatic stress disorder, career resilience and perceived organizational support in emergency department nurses

Emergency department nurses are frequently exposed to high-intensity, traumatic events, placing them at increased risk of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The current study investigated correlations between PTSD, career resilience, and perceived organizational support in emergency department nurses at tertiary hospitals. The study was cross-sectional, and conducted using a general information questionnaire, the PTSD self-rating scale, the career resilience scale, and the perceived organizational support scale, distributed to a convenience sample of emergency department nurses from tertiary comprehensive hospitals in Wuxi and Suzhou. A total of 224 questionnaires were distributed, with 213 valid responses (response rate 95.1%). The mean PTSD score was 46.67 ± 7.27, and 29.11% of participants met the threshold for PTSD symptoms. PTSD was negatively correlated with career resilience and perceived organizational support (p < 0.05). In multiple regression analysis self-confidence, self-dependence, emotional support, and instrumental support were significant predictors of PTSD. The study highlighted relationships between career resilience, perceived organizational support, and PTSD symptoms. Hospitals should implement resilience-building and organizational support initiatives focused on enhancing occupational resilience and emotional support mechanisms. Strengthening these factors may improve mental health outcomes and contribute to the long-term sustainability of high-stress clinical environments such as emergency departments.