Testing the Revised Stress-Response Sequence Model in Pediatric Oncology Nurses

Abstract

In a series of five studies, the research team tested components of the stress-response sequence (SRS) model to determine the relationships between role-related stress, coping, and work consequences in pediatric oncology nurses. The combined outcomes indicated that the model required revision to include role-related meaning; this study tested the revised model. Eighty-nine pediatric oncology nurses from one setting completed seven study questionnaires. The new scale, the Role-Related Meaning Scale, created for this study achieved a Cronbach's alpha of .83 and significant positive correlations with other study variables. Descriptive findings indicate that the nurses are moderately to highly stressed; use coping strategies frequently and effectively; have high levels of job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and group cohesion; and exhibit low intent to leave the organization. Importantly, the stress and coping components of the model did not predict role consequences. These outcomes suggest that the revised SRS model does not adequately predict role consequences in pediatric oncology nurses. A new model is proposed.