The pooled prevalence of PTSD among ICU nurses is approximately 32.78%
This systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 observational studies found that the prevalence of PTSD among ICU nurses ranges from 3.3% to 64%, with a pooled prevalence of 32.78% (95% CI: 31.6%–33.9%). The high prevalence underscores the need for targeted interventions and support programs for this population.
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The pooled prevalence of PTSD among ICU nurses is approximately 32.78% The current body of evidence comprises 1 study and 1 meta-analysis. EvidenceHub rates the overall confidence at 47/100 (low).
The Claim
The pooled prevalence of PTSD among ICU nurses is approximately 32.78%
This conclusion is most relevant to: Intensive care unit (ICU) nurses.
What the Research Shows
The conclusion draws on 1 linked study. Highlights from the cited literature:
- ▸Epidemiology of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Intensive Care Nurses: A Systematic Review. (Iranian journal of public health, 2026) —
How It Works
The proposed biological pathway:
- ▸ICU nurses are frequently exposed to traumatic events and patient death
- ▸High workload, staff shortage, and organizational issues (e.g., lack of psychological support) increase risk
- ▸Individual factors such as younger age and prior mental health disorders also contribute
- ▸Result: High prevalence of PTSD (32.78%) with negative impacts on psychological distress, sleep quality, loneliness, and quality of life
Who Might Benefit
Evidence fit by population:
- ▸Intensive care unit (ICU) nurses
Recommended Dose
N/A
Limitations & Caveats
Important context when interpreting this evidence:
- ▸The review included only studies published in English, which may introduce language bias
- ▸The included studies had heterogeneous sample sizes and possibly varying PTSD assessment tools, leading to wide prevalence range
- ▸The review did not include longitudinal data, limiting causal inference
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prevalence of PTSD among ICU nurses?▼
The pooled prevalence is approximately 32.78%, with individual studies reporting rates from 3.3% to 64%.
What are the main risk factors for PTSD in ICU nurses?▼
Risk factors include exposure to traumatic events, high workload, staff shortage, organizational issues (lack of psychological support), younger age, and prior mental health disorders.
What are the impacts of PTSD on ICU nurses?▼
Impacts include psychological distress, poor sleep quality, feelings of loneliness, and reduced health-related quality of life.
What interventions are recommended for ICU nurses with PTSD?▼
The paper recommends targeted interventions such as providing staffing support, psychological resources, and resilience training.
References
- 1.Gehisari Z, Hashemzadeh E, Fazlizade S, Razaghpour H, Abdi M, Asadi Aghajari M. “Epidemiology of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Intensive Care Nurses: A Systematic Review..” Iranian journal of public health, 2026. PMID: 42548804 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v54i12.20811