FACTORS INFLUENCING STRESS AND BURNOUT EXPERIENCES AMONG NEWLY QUALIFIED NURSES IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL, BENIN CITY: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Newly qualified nurses (NQN) often experience stress and burnout during the transition from academic preparation to clinical practice. Heavy workload, limited confidence, theory-practice gaps, and weak workplace support may shape this period. This study examined the level, perception, perceived impact, and influencing factors of stress and burnout among newly qualified nurses at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected using a structured 49 item questionnaire. Section B consisted of items adapted from the Perceived Stress Scale, while Sections C-E were researcher-developed based on literature review. The instrument has good internal consistency with Cronbach alphas above 0.72. A total of 151 questionnaires were distributed to a purposive sample of NQN, and 147 complete responses were analysed, giving a response rate of 97.4%. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. The mean cutoff values were 3.0 for the 5-point scale and 2.5 for the 4-point scale. Respondents reported marked stress and burnout. Major stressors included overwhelming workload (mean = 3.4), severe staff shortages (mean = 3.4), and a lack of essential resources. Substantial stress and burnout among NQN at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital largely stem from workplace conditions. Structured mentorship, staffing review, transition support, and adequate clinical resources are needed to protect nurses’ well-being and care quality.