# Burdens and coping strategies among geriatric care nurses during COVID-19: A factorial survey

## TL;DR

Geriatric care nurses in Germany used various coping strategies during the pandemic, with social support being most effective despite challenges.

## Contribution

The study introduces a factorial survey approach to analyze burdens and coping strategies of geriatric care nurses during the pandemic.

## Key findings

- Participants reported higher stress levels during the pandemic compared to before.
- Coping strategies like seeking support from colleagues were effective, while harmful behaviors were less so.
- Social interaction-focused strategies were particularly beneficial despite contact restrictions.

## Abstract

Geriatric care nurses used different strategies to cope with the various burdens they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting care interactions and reflecting their professional identity.

To explore the burdens and coping strategies of German geriatric care nurses, using professional identity as a conceptual framework.

Cross-sectional factorial survey using vignettes (i.e., hypothetical descriptions of care situations).

Stratified sampling was applied at the facility level, based on the distribution of nursing homes across German federal states. A total of 188 geriatric care nurses participated.

The factorial online survey included socio-demographic variables, COVID-19-specific questions, vignettes, and feedback items. Descriptive statistics and multilevel regression analysis were conducted.

Participants reported higher stress during the pandemic than before. Burden characteristics described in the vignettes had no significant effect on participants' judgement behaviour. A random-intercept level 2 model showed that a higher workload and caring for residents significantly influenced participants' judgement. Closeness to family and friends, and seeking support from colleagues were effective coping strategies, while bending guidelines and harmful consumption behaviour were less effective.

Coping strategies focused on social interaction were particularly beneficial despite contact restrictions. The type of burden appeared less important than the ability to cope with it. The subordinate role of professional identity may reflect a shift towards functional care. We have highlighted the possible need to address stress management and working conditions of geriatric care nurses, especially in the light of potential future crises.

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A factorial survey exploring relevant burden and coping strategies German geriatric care nurses experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.