Factors influencing nurses' intention to care for patients with emerging infectious diseases: Application of the theory of planned behavior

Abstract

Emerging infectious diseases have caused many health problems and have been identified as a major health issue worldwide. The aim of this descriptive, cross‐sectional survey study was to investigate nursing intention among nurses caring for emerging infectious disease patients in Korea and to describe factors influencing nurses' intention to care by applying the theory of planned behavior. A total of 147 Korean nurses were included and data accrued using an online questionnaire. Among the independent variables, perceived behavioral control, attitudes toward the behavior, and sex significantly influenced nursing intention. These variables explained 55.1% of nursing intention to care for patients with emerging infectious diseases, and perceived behavioral control (confidence or self‐efficacy in caring for patients) was the strongest predictor. These findings showed the usefulness of the theory of planned behavior in predicting nurses' intention to care for patients with emerging infectious diseases. Providing an educational program on caring for patients with pandemic diseases would also increase self‐confidence and reduce concerns. In addition, institutional support, such as compensation payments and recognition from administrators, would also strengthen positive attitudes among nurses.

Nurses’ perceptions and demands regarding COVID-19 care delivery in critical care units and hospital emergency services

“…In addition, experts have also reported the risk for vicarious traumatization and compassion fatigue in nurses caring for patients with COVID-19 in CCUs and HESs ( Alharbi et al, 2020 ). Willingness to care was found to be positively associated with professionalism, safety, and self-confidence, and negatively associated with stress and negative experiences ( Oh et al, 2017 , Lee and Kang, 2020 ). Thus, it is recommended that initiatives to care for the mental health of clinicians during the crisis be maintained over time in the event of future outbreaks ( McAlonan et al, 2007 )…”

The Psychological Status and Self-Efficacy of Nurses During COVID-19 Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Survey

“…22 In addition, self-efficacy was a important factor in predicting nurses' willingness to care for patients with emerging infectious disease. 23,24 This study was to examine the psychological status and self-efficacy of nurses still working in public hospital during COVID-19 outbreak, and explore the relationships among demographic variables, anxiety, depression, and self-efficacy.…”

Manejo emocional de la crisis sanitaria ante el coronavirus: una revisión narrativa

“…Así, estas viven menos estrés y mantienen condiciones mentales adecuadas para cuidar del paciente. Se recomienda implantar programas educativos para fortalecer las cualidades de las enfermeras ante los desafíos y su capacidad de control, aumentando la autoconfianza y reduciendo preocupaciones 7,8 (NDE4.b.GR.B).…”