Posttraumatic negative cognitions in nurses affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake: A longitudinal study two years after the nuclear power plant accident

Abstract

This study elucidated mental health changes in 39 nurses in Fukushima Prefecture one to two years after the Great East Japan Earthquake. Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms improved, but posttraumatic negative cognitions worsened significantly. Factors including stress during the disaster, nursing-related stressors, and lack of disaster nursing experience contributed to negative cognitions. However, higher resilience and social support were associated with fewer negative cognitions. The complexity and uniqueness of radiation disasters may have influenced the nurses' negative thoughts. To address these issues, hospital administrators should reduce occupational stress, provide flexibility in work choices during disasters, and offer organizational support for nurses.