Abstract
Introduction: Nurses and midwives caring for newborns with lethal defects experience significant emotional stress. Understanding coping strategies and the factors influencing stress is crucial for improving their well-being and ensuring high-quality care. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the coping strategies used by nurses and midwives in stressful situations and to analyse the relationship between stress levels and selected sociodemographic and professional factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the second quarter of 2023 among 307 nurses and midwives working in neonatal and obstetric wards in the Silesian metropolitan area, Poland. A diagnostic survey method was applied using a standardised questionnaire. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the MINI-COPE Inventory were used to assess stress levels and coping mechanisms. A stratified random sampling method was employed to ensure representation from various professional backgrounds. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Spearman's correlation, and Cohen's d coefficient, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: High stress levels were associated with shorter professional experience, frequent exposure to lethal defects, and emotional discomfort in interactions with grieving families. The most commonly used coping strategies were active coping (M = 2.06, SD = 0.635) and planning (M = 1.95, SD = 0.590), whereas self-blame (M = 1.20, SD = 0.714, p < 0.001) and denial (M = 0.88, SD = 0.751, p < 0.001) were linked to higher stress levels. Positive reinterpretation (r = -0.211, p < 0.001) and seeking emotional support (r = -0.129, p = 0.024) correlated with lower stress levels. Nurses and midwives with secondary education reported higher stress levels compared to those with higher education (χ(2)(10) = 30.651, p = 0.001). Work experience played a role, with moderate stress levels most frequently observed among those with 2-5 years of professional experience (χ(2)(14) = 24.023, p = 0.046). Emotional involvement, particularly supporting parents during their farewell to the child (69.1%), was identified as the most stressful aspect of their work. Conclusions: Promoting adaptive coping strategies, such as positive reinterpretation and emotional support, can help reduce stress and improve the well-being of nurses and midwives. Implementing psychological support programmes and stress management training is essential for maintaining high-quality neonatal care.