Navigating Stress: The Psychological Challenges of Auxiliary Nurse Midwives in Rural Lucknow.

Abstract

Background: Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) are critical to rural healthcare in India, serving in subcentres and providing primary healthcare services. Given their extensive responsibilities and workload, addressing psychological stress among ANMs is crucial to prevent stress-related illnesses and improve their well-being.

Objective: This study investigates the prevalence and predictors of psychological stress among ANMs in rural Lucknow.

Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to May 2024 across six rural blocks of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, and 300 ANMs were selected through multistage sampling. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic profiles, work-related factors, and the Workplace Stress Scale by the American Institute of Stress was used to collect data. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used to assess the predictors of psychological stress.

Results: The study found that, out of total 54% ANMs experiencing workplace stress, 45.7% and 8.3% have reported moderate and severe stress, respectively. Diabetes as co-morbidity, work fatigue, and working at CHC were the key predictors for stress in ANMs. It was also found that ANMs working at PHCs had significantly lower stress levels than those working at subcentres and CHCs.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of psychological stress among ANMs in rural Lucknow necessitates targeted interventions. Addressing the identified stress predictors through policy changes, better resource allocation, and support systems can help mitigate stress and promote the well-being of these essential healthcare workers.