Relationship between levels of burnout and self-efficacy with hand grip strength and hand dexterity among nursing students: Cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

Nursing practice demands a high level of manual dexterity and hand grip strength for tasks such as medication administration, patient handling, and operating medical equipment. Burnout and self-efficacy are common psychological factors among nursing students that may potentially influence the development or expression of these physical skills. However, the nature of this relationship is not well understood.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between levels of self-efficacy and burnout, with hand grip strength and hand dexterity, in nursing students at King Saud University.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 57 nursing students average age was 21.98 ± 1.70 years. Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey and General Self-Efficacy Scale were used. Hand dexterity was evaluated using Purdue Pegboard Test and hand grip strength was assessed using a dynamometer. Correlation analysis was used to determine the associations between the variables.

Results

No significant correlations between overall burnout or its emotional exhaustion and cynicism sub-scores, and hand function (p > .05). However, professional efficacy showed a significant positive correlation with Purdue Pegboard Assembly (r_s = .29, p = .03) and Purdue Pegboard Both Hands scores (r_s = .32, p = .01). General self-efficacy also correlated positively with Purdue Pegboard Assembly (r_s = .34, p = .009), but no other significant correlations were observed.

Conclusions

These results may have implications for student support and interventions aimed at enhancing self-efficacy, potentially optimizing the development of skills critical for future nursing practice.