Assessment of Academic Stress and Coping Mechanisms among Entry-level Nursing Students in Nigeria: Baseline Findings from the Pioneer Cohort at Abdulrashid Dankoli College of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna

Abstract

Nursing education is academically demanding and psychologically taxing, yet limited research exists on stress among entry-level nursing students in Nigeria's newly established institutions. This study assessed academic stress levels, identified predominant stressors, and examined coping mechanisms among the pioneer cohort of entry-level nursing students at Abdulrashid Dankoli College of Nursing Sciences, Kaduna, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 40 entry-level National Diploma I nursing students (census sampling). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), adapted Nursing Student Stressors Questionnaire, and Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced (COPE) Inventory. Analysis employed descriptive statistics using Microsoft Excel and SPSS. Respondents were predominantly female (92.5%, n=37) and single (75%, n=30), with 65% (n=26) residing with family. Perceived stress levels showed 42% (n=17) experiencing moderate stress, 22% (n=9) high stress, and 12% (n=5) severe stress. The major stress indicators revealed 34% (n=14) frequently felt nervous/stressed, while 28% (n=11) felt unable to control important things. The highest-rated stressors were large content volume (mean=3.2±1.2), fear of clinical mistakes (mean=3.1±1.2), and fear of failing exams (mean=3.0±1.3). Financial pressure scored mean=2.9±1.4. Adaptive coping strategies predominated: planning (mean=3.0±0.9), active coping (mean=2.8±1.0), and acceptance (mean=2.7±1.1). However, self-blame (mean=2.4±1.2) was the highest maladaptive strategy, exceeding several adaptive approaches. Substance use was lowest (mean=1.4±0.7). The Entry-level nursing students experience moderate-to-high academic stress primarily from content volume and clinical fears. While students employ adaptive coping strategies, elevated self-blame scores warrant targeted mental health interventions.