Am J Perinatol 1984; 1(3): 268-271
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1000018
ORIGINAL ARTICLE

© 1984 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Stress and Coping Strategies of Nurse Managers in the NICU

Ronald E. Gribbins1 , Richard E. Marshall2
  • 1Assistant Professor of Organizational Behavior, Health Administration Program, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
  • 2Professor of Pediatrics, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
04 March 2008 (online)

ABSTRACT

Nursing managers in neonatal intensive care units must cope with numerous stresses that arise in the context of managing a complex medical unit. Ten nurse managers were interviewed using a structured interview to determine the frequency of interaction and the sources of stress that occur in working with physicians, hospital administration, nursing administration, and staff nurses. Physicians are a major source of stress but the issues vary depending on the role held by the nurse manager. The unwillingness of the staff nurse to appreciate the time involved in implementing any change is another major source of stress. Numerous coping strategies are being implemented to address identified sources of stresses. The intent of these strategies is to reduce stress by increasing the flow of task-relevant communication to all parties.