Assessment of Secondary Traumatic Stress Symptoms and Related Factors Among NICU Nurses

Purpose Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses frequently encounter emotionally challenging situations that may lead to secondary traumatic stress syndrome (STSS), a condition akin to post‐traumatic stress disorder. This study investigated the severity of STSS among NICU nurses and identified its associated factors. Methods We conducted a descriptive, cross‐sectional survey among 123 NICU nurses from four hospitals affiliated with the Shahid Beheshti Medical University of Medical Sciences in Tehran, Iran. Participants completed a demographic information sheet and the 17‐item Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS) based on PTSD symptom criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t ‐tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation. Results The results showed that STSS values among the participating nurses ranged from 18 to 68, with an average score of 42.9 ± 12, which indicates a moderate level of STSS. Of the 123 nurses surveyed, approximately 46% reported experiencing high to severe levels of STSS. Our findings also revealed that factors associated with higher STSS levels included younger age, being single, not having children, less professional experience, longer work shifts, and lack of stress management training. Higher STSS levels correlated with an increased likelihood of leaving the nursing profession. The avoidance subscale showed the highest mean value (17.2) among others. Implications STSS poses a critical challenge for NICU nurses in Iran, which has affected their decision to stay in the profession or leave it. To decrease the adverse consequences of stressful work situations, self‐care practices and organizational wellness strategies should be designed and implemented with consideration of cultural standards.