Prevalence of Stress and Anxiety Among Nursing Students

A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: 

There is variability in the reported prevalence of stress and anxiety among nursing students across studies, and few studies have investigated the pooled prevalence of stress and anxiety of these students.

Purpose: 

To investigate the prevalence and associated factors related to stress and anxiety among nursing students.

Methods: 

Various electronic databases were searched up to October 26, 2022. A random-effects model and a moderator analysis were used to examine the overall prevalence and related factors. Begg's test was adopted to examine publication bias.

Results: 

In total, 121 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Most nursing students experienced moderate stress (42.1%) and mild to moderate anxiety (19.4%-25.1%). Third- and fourth-year nursing students had severe stress levels compared with those in the first and second years (29.0% vs 15.1%).

Conclusions: 

Nurse educators should design appropriate curricula to strengthen student knowledge and provide regular assessments and supportive interventions to reduce stress and anxiety.