Living Under Pressure: A Phenomenological Study of ICU Nurses’ Stress, Coping and Resilience

While many studies discussed stress and burnout in ICU nurses, few focus on their personal stories and lived experiences. There is a need to better understand how nurses experience, manage, and make sense of stress in their daily work. This study used Husserlian phenomenology to explore nurses’ lived experiences. Ten ICU nurses were purposely selected. Data were collected through synchronous, text-based interviews, with the researcher serving as the primary instrument. The data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Findings showed that ICU nurses experience constant, multifaceted stress, mainly due to heavy workloads, high patient acuity, staffing shortages, and the need for quick decisions. Nurses described feeling overthinking, anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and physical fatigue, showing how stress affects them mentally, emotionally, and physically. Relationships and communication with colleagues, patients, and families also played a big role, sometimes reducing stress, but at times making it more challenging. To cope, nurses used strategies such as prioritizing tasks, taking short breaks, seeking support from others, and engaging in spiritual practices. Over time, many nurses developed resilience, adaptability, and professional growth, making these experiences part of who they are as professionals. In conclusion, stress in ICU nursing is continuous and ever-changing, affecting nurses’ well-being, coping ability, and professional growth. The study highlighted the importance of stronger support systems, better communication, and stress management programs to help ICU nurses maintain their well-being. Future efforts may focus on creating supportive workplace environments that promote resilience.