A Study to Assess the Level of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Nursing Students in Community Settings

Abstract

Introduction: After being exposed to stressful events, a mental health condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may develop. Because they frequently encounter emotionally taxing and stressful situations during clinical and community assignments, nursing students are vulnerable to PTSD symptoms. Early PTSD detection is essential to nursing students' academic progress and psychological well.

Methodology: For a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study, 120 nursing students from certain nursing colleges were chosen using an appropriate sample approach. Data was collected using a structured demographic questionnaire and the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-C). Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used in the data analysis process.

Results: The findings showed that 35% of nursing students had mild PTSD, 45% had moderate PTSD, 15% had severe PTSD, and 5% had symptoms that were extremely severe. There was a strong correlation (p<0.05) between the severity of PTSD and previous exposure to stressful situations.

Conclusion: The results of the study showed that a significant portion of nursing students experienced moderate to severe symptoms of PTSD. Regular mental assessment, counseling services, and stress-reduction strategies are recommended for nursing students.