ASSESS THE LEVEL OF STRESS AMONG NURSING STUDENTS IN PRIVATE COLLEGES OF PESHAWAR PAKISTAN "A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY"

Abstract

Background: Numerous academic, clinical, and personal pressures that nursing students regularly encounter can have an adverse effect on their mental well-being, academic achievement, and future professional competency. These pressures are frequently ignored in Pakistan, particularly in private institutions, which leads to exhaustion, discontent, and even the desire to migrate. Globally, research has consistently demonstrated that nursing students face substantial stress, with prevalence rates ranging from 20% to 65%, depending on geographic and institutional context. However, localized data from Pakistan especially from private sector institutions in cities like Peshawar remains limited. Understanding these stressors within the regional context is essential to design culturally and institutionally relevant interventions. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence, intensity, and sources of stress among undergraduate nursing students enrolled in six private nursing colleges in Peshawar, Pakistan. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were collected using the Stressors in Nursing Students Questionnaire, a validated tool measuring various domains of student stress, including academic pressure, clinical workload, interpersonal conflicts, and personal stress. A total of 270 nursing students participated in the study through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 26. Descriptive statistics, including means, frequencies, and standard deviations, were computed to explore stress levels. Cross-tabulation and inferential statistics were used to assess associations between stress levels and demographic variables. Results: The findings revealed that a significant proportion of nursing students experienced moderate  to high levels of stress. Academic workload, clinical responsibilities, and fear of failure were reported as major stressors. Female students and those in earlier years of study reported comparatively higher stress levels. Additionally, a considerable number of participants indicated that prolonged stress adversely affected their academic performance and personal well-being. Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need for structured stress management programs and institutional support mechanisms in nursing colleges. Addressing these stressors early may not only improve students’ well-being and performance but also contribute to the retention and professional growth of the future nursing workforce in Pakistan.

Keywords:  Nursing students, stress, private colleges, Peshawar, academic stress, clinical stress, Pakistan, nursing education