What Are the Consequences of Nurse Stress on Patient Care?
When nurses are stressed, it can negatively impact patient care. Increased stress levels can lead to errors in medication administration, lapses in judgment, and decreased attention to detail. Stressed nurses may also have reduced empathy and communication skills, which can affect the quality of patient interactions and overall patient satisfaction. In extreme cases, chronic stress can lead to absenteeism, further straining healthcare systems already facing staffing shortages.