Clinical Report: Moral Distress in Pediatric Nursing: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Overview
This study assesses moral distress levels among pediatric nurses in Sichuan, China, revealing significant distress particularly in intensive care settings. Key factors influencing moral distress include professional title, gender, and ethical climate.
Background
Moral distress is a critical issue in nursing, particularly in pediatric settings where ethical dilemmas are frequent. Understanding the prevalence and predictors of moral distress can inform interventions to improve nurse well-being and patient care. This study contributes valuable data from a non-Western context, highlighting the need for targeted support in pediatric nursing.
Data Highlights
Measure
Median Score
Interquartile Range
Total Moral Distress Score
64.00
36.00–84.00
Key Findings
The median total moral distress score among pediatric nurses was 64.00.
Nurses in PICUs and NICUs reported higher levels of moral distress compared to those in general pediatric units (H = 30.828, P<0.01).
Charge nurses and those with higher titles experienced greater moral distress (H = 17.620, P<0.01).
Female nurses reported more severe moral distress than male nurses (Z = 2.006, P<0.05).
Six independent predictors accounted for 40.2% of the variance in moral distress scores.
Factors influencing moral distress included department, professional title, gender, hospital ethical climate, moral sensitivity, and nurse–physician collaboration.
Clinical Implications
List specific interventions that could be implemented to address moral distress.
Conclusion
Moral distress is prevalent among pediatric nurses in Sichuan, China, with significant implications for nurse well-being and patient care. Addressing the identified predictors is essential for improving the work environment in pediatric nursing.
