Effect of trauma severity on stress management among first-year nursing students in earthquake zones: A multicenter study

Abstract

In regions affected by earthquakes, psychological evaluation of first-year students is essential for ensuring the smooth progression of the educational process. This study aimed to determine the impact of trauma severity on stress management among first-year nursing students in the earthquake region following the February 6, 2023, earthquake in Turkey. A cross-sectional, correlational study was conducted with 485 first-year undergraduate nursing students who began their studies in 11 earthquake-affected provinces in Turkey following the February 6, 2023, earthquake. The study took place during the 2023-2024 academic year. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis. A weak but statistically significant negative correlation was observed between students' post-earthquake trauma levels and their stress management scores (r = -.162; p <.001). The standardized regression coefficient was highest for the affective subscale (beta = - 0.650), followed by the emotional limitation subscale (beta = - 0.165). Together, these variables accounted for 5% of the total variance in stress management (R =.050; R-2 = 0.050; p <.001).The findings indicated that as students' levels of post-earthquake trauma increased, their use of coping strategies decreased, with affective and emotional responses identified as predictors of stress management.