Overload Stress

Introduction to Nursing Diagnosis: Overload Stress

Nursing Diagnosis: Overload Stress is a nursing diagnosis that defines health problems related to excessive intellectual, emotional and physical stress. It includes an assessment of the individual’s ability to cope with life stressors, both internal and external, that may contribute to fatigue, depression, anxiety and other physical symptoms.

Nursing Diagnosis Definition

Nursing Diagnosis: Overload Stress is officially defined as being “a state in which an individual perceives that environmental or internal demands exceed their adaptive capacity.”

Defining Characteristics

Subjective Characteristics

• Unable to rest during periods of inactivity
• Feeling overwhelmed with life events or tasks
• Difficulty sleeping
• Experiences overreaction to minor stressors
• Reports difficulty concentrating

Objective Characteristics

• Tense muscular tone
• Signs of increased sympathetic tone
• Elevated blood pressure
• Crying spells
• Rapid pulse rate

Related Factors

Relevant factors associated with Overload Stress include:

• Life Changes – sudden changes in job, family dynamics, age-related transitions, etc.
• Excessive Work Demands – physical, medical, mental and emotional demands that tax resources
• Environmental Conditions – such as excessive noise, overcrowding, financial hardship or hazardous living conditions
• Poor Coping Skills – inadequate problem-solving, communication or negotiation skills; inability to identify resources or ask for help
• Family and Social Conflict – conflicting values, expectations and roles between family members, or within the larger social system

Risk Population

People of all ages, genders and backgrounds are at risk for Overload Stress. Those most likely to experience it are:

• Older Adults – due to increased risks associated with aging and loneliness
• New Mothers – due to the physical and emotional exhaustion associated with caring for a newborn
• People with Mental Illness – due to additional stressors caused by living with a mental disorder

Associated Problems

Individuals facing Overload Stress are at an increased risk of depression, anxiety, fatigue and other psychological and physical issues. They may also be more likely to engage in high-risk behaviors, such as substance use or gambling.

Suggestions of Use

The primary goal in treating Overload Stress is to reduce the individual’s perceived level of stress. This can be achieved through a variety of interventions, including relaxation techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, problem-solving strategies, biofeedback and lifestyle changes. In addition, it is important to provide ongoing education and support to help the patient develop coping skills.

Suggested Alternative Nursing Diagnosis

• Anxiety — feeling of apprehension or dread
• Powerlessness — inability to influence outcomes
• Risk for Ineffective Activity Planning — poor decision-making or planning skills
• Coping, Ineffective — unsuccessful management of life situations
• Risk for Impaired Home Maintenance — inability to prioritize chores and daily tasks

Usage Tips

• Be aware of cultural, severity and contextual differences in the presentation of this diagnosis.
• Develop realistic goals to help the patient achieve a manageable workload.
• Encourage the patient to seek support from family and friends.
• Educate the patient on stress management techniques.
• Encourage the patient to prioritize tasks and delegate responsibilities when possible.

NOC Results

• Coping — the ability to establish and maintain particular behaviors to promote health and well-being
• Decision Making — the ability to make sound, informed decisions
• Self Care: Activities of Daily Living — the ability to perform basic activities of daily living including hygiene, nutrition, clothing selection and home maintenance
• Body Temperature Regulation — the ability to maintain normal body temperature and respond appropriately to temperature changes

NIC Interventions

• Teaching: Crisis Intervention — providing support and information about identified problems
• Stress Management Training — educating, demonstrating, and supporting activities to reduce stress
• Social Environment Support — providing a reassuring environment in which to address problems
• Relaxation Techniques Promotion — demonstrating relaxation techniques to maximize comfort
• Time Management Assistance — assisting the patient in determining priorities and organizing activities

Conclusion and FAQ

Overall, Nursing Diagnosis: Overload Stress is an important concept to understand. With proper assessment, intervention, and education, nurses can help individuals manage the stresses of life.

FAQ: How does stress affect health? Prolonged or chronic stress can have negative effects on health, both mental and physical. Common symptoms of prolonged stress include insomnia, headaches, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.