Stress Perception and Coping Strategies of Nursing Students During the Coronavirus Disease-19 Pandemic

To investigate the perceived stress and coping orientation to problems among nursing students in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic. This descriptive correlational study used a self-administered questionnaire that included personal data, a perceived stress scale, and a Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced Inventory (COPE). Altogether, 235 participants were enrolled, of which 51.1% were aged 19 to 20. The 14-item perceived stress scale and the Brief COPE scores' problem- and emotion-focused dimensions showed a significant negative correlation but no avoidant dimension. Higher PSS scores were associated with younger age, grade point average of 3, and second academic year level. Stress levels were higher among younger students in the lower academic year level and perceived lower grades. PSS showed a significant inverse correlation with the problem-focused dimension and its subscales, including active coping, instrumental support use, positive reframing, and planning in Brief COPE. Proper intervention is needed to maintain their academic standing.