Depression and related factors among public health nurses engaged in cases of child neglect-related abuse
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Objectives To evaluate the occurrence of depression and its related factors among public health nurses (PHNs) engaged in child neglect-related abuse cases. Methods A cross-sectional study of PHNs involved in maternal and child health or child and family welfare, and engaged in cases of child neglect-related abuse was conducted from January to March 2023 in all municipalities of 13 prefectures selected from Japan’s seven regions, considering geographic diversity and major urban areas. The Patient Health Questionnaire-2 was used to screen for depression. Statistical analyses included the Chi-square test, Mann–Whitney U test, and logistic regression analysis. Results A total of 359 provided valid responses. Among them, 11.4 % screened positive for depression. Significant individual factors related depression were management-stage nurses ( OR = 6.27, 95 % CI : 1.63–24.18), no disability welfare experience ( OR = 3.49, 95 % CI : 1.05–11.55), being assignment of high-risk cases within the past year ( OR = 8.28, 95 % CI : 2.07–33.08), and lower work control ( OR = 0.53, 95 % CI : 0.32–0.86). Workplace environment factors were lower perceptions and relationships within the workplace ( OR = 0.43, 95 % CI : 0.29–0.65) and perceiving manpower as not secured ( OR = 9.07, 95 % CI : 1.17–70.40). Conclusions Mental health measures for PHNs should include workload management and reduced burdens through workforce enhancement, attention to burdens on managerial PHNs, promoting communication and mutual support, and opportunities to engage in disability welfare work.
Authors: Ayano Ogata, Ayako Ide-Okochi
Institutions: Yamaguchi University, Kumamoto University
Language: English
Subfield: Occupational Therapy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4413185552