Comparison of Death Anxiety and Happiness of Nurses Working in Corona Wards with Those of Nurses Working in Other Wards in Educational-Medical Centers of Shiraz, Iran, In 2020

Background and Objective: This study aimed to compare death anxiety and happiness in nurses of Corona wards with those of nurses in other wards in educational-medical centers of Shiraz, Iran, in 2020. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 155 nurses working in Corona wards, and 155 nurses working in other wards of educational-medical centers in Shiraz, Iran. They were selected using a relatively stratified sampling method in proportion to the number of nurses in each educational and medical center. The data were collected using a three-part questionnaire (demographic characteristics, Oxford happiness, Templer death anxiety). The obtained data were then analyzed using SPSS software (version 26) through descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results: The mean scores of death anxiety in nurses working in Corona wards and other wards were obtained at 8.34±3.06 and 7.15±3.38, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean scores of death anxiety (P<0.05). The mean scores of happiness in nurses of Corona wards and other wards were 39.77±11.14 and 45.43±10.38, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean scores of happiness (P<0.05). Moreover, an inverse relationship was observed between death anxiety and happiness (P<0.001, r=-0.482). Conclusion: It is suggested that in critical situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the mental health of nurses be given more attention.