Time Management and Stress Relief: What Nursing Students Can Teach Us

Stress is a universal experience, but for nursing students, it can be especially intense. Balancing clinical training, academic demands, and personal responsibilities often leaves little room for rest or recovery. One key factor that can make a significant difference in managing this stress is effective time management. Eldeeb and Eldosoky (2016) explored this relationship in depth, offering insights that extend beyond nursing education into everyday life.

The Study

The study titled “Relationship between Effectiveness of Time Management and Stress Levels Among Nursing Students” was published in the IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science. It aimed to examine how time management skills correlate with stress levels among nursing students at different stages of their education. The researchers focused on students from the 3rd and 8th levels at the Faculty of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University.

Methodology

The researchers used a descriptive correlational design and selected a simple random sample of 90 nursing students—45 from the 3rd level and 45 from the 8th level. Two validated tools were employed:

• Time Management Questionnaire (Wayne State University, 2013)
• Student Nursing Stress Index (SNSI) developed by Jones & Johnston (1999)

These instruments measured the students’ time management effectiveness and stress levels, allowing for comparison between the two groups.

Key Findings

• Both groups demonstrated low levels of time management effectiveness, with no students scoring in the high range.
• 3rd level students had higher mean scores for stress compared to 8th level students.
• Interestingly, 3rd level students also had slightly better time management scores than their senior counterparts.
• The study found a non-statistically significant positive correlation between time management and stress levels—suggesting that while better time management may help reduce stress, other factors also play a role.

Time Management and Stress Management

Time management is more than just scheduling—it’s about prioritizing, setting boundaries, and making intentional choices. For nursing students, poor time management can lead to missed deadlines, sleep deprivation, and emotional exhaustion. These stressors activate the body’s sympathetic nervous system, increasing cortisol levels and impairing cognitive function.

By contrast, effective time management can help regulate stress by:

• Reducing last-minute pressure
• Allowing time for rest and recovery
• Improving focus and productivity
• Enhancing a sense of control and confidence

These benefits are not limited to students—they apply to anyone juggling multiple responsibilities.

Practical Implications

Based on the study’s findings, here are some practical strategies for improving time management and reducing stress:

• Use a planner or digital calendar to track deadlines and commitments.
• Break tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic goals.
• Prioritize tasks using methods like the Eisenhower Matrix.
• Limit distractions such as social media during study or work time.
• Schedule downtime to recharge and prevent burnout.

For educators and institutions, the study recommends implementing time management and stress reduction training during student orientation.

Conclusion

Eldeeb and Eldosoky (2016) underscores the importance of time management in managing stress—especially in high-pressure environments like nursing education. While the correlation may not be statistically strong, the practical benefits of organizing time effectively are clear. Whether you're a student, professional, or caregiver, mastering your schedule can be a powerful step toward mastering your stress.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

Reference
Eldeeb, G. A. E., & Eldosoky, E. K. (2016). Relationship between effectiveness of time management and stress levels among nursing students. IOSR Journal of Nursing and Health Science, 5(2), 95–100. https://www.iosrjournals.org/iosr-jnhs/papers/vol5-issue2/Version-4/L05020495100.pdf