Introduction: The COVID-19 epidemic has strongly affected the lives of people around the world, as the respiratory virus has claimed many victims. It has proven to have a huge impact on society as well as on individual people. In this crisis, nurses have a key role to play in helping complex cases that require the hospitalization of vulnerable groups, who often have pre-existing health problems, complications and, consequently, a higher risk of mortality. Using effective coping strategies helps nurses manage stressful events and reduces negative emotions. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to present strategies for coping with stress in nurses during the COVID-19 epidemic and to examine which strategies have proven to be more effective. Methods of work: The descriptive method of work was used in the diploma thesis. The selection of literature for analysis was carried out using the PRIZMA methodology. A review of professional and scientific literature was conducted. The literature was searched in the databases PubMed, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, PsycInfo, and the web portal DiKUL, and subsequently in the browser Google Scholar. We reviewed domestic and foreign literature with key words in English: coping strategies AND stress AND nurses AND COVID-19 AND effectiveness of coping strategies OR mental health. We have included review and / or original articles in Slovene or English. We have considered the time frame of the publication from 2019 onwards. Results: COVID-19 undoubtedly affects the physical and mental health of both nurses and the general population. Healthcare professionals differ in their susceptibility to the hardships caused by COVID-19. A review of the literature included seven studies conducted in different countries, all showing an increase in stress, anxiety, burnout, and depression in nurses. Physical activity, the use of mobile self-help apps, active coping, and planning were the most used effective coping strategies by the nurses during the epidemic. In a small number of analysed studies alcohol use has proven to be an ineffective coping strategy. Discussion and Conclusion: For nurses to deal effectively with stress and stress-related factors during the COVID-19 epidemic, appropriate coping strategies are crucial for their mental and physical health. According to the review, the epidemic has psychological consequences, which holds true also in Slovenia, although we have not found extensive Slovene studies on this topic.
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