Showing 2 results for Uncertainty
Bahareh Najafi, Ahmad Nasiri,
Volume 29, Issue 2 (7-2023)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Uncertainty is a multifaceted concept, inherently unavoidable, and can pose a significant obstacle to proper decision-making. In the nursing profession, which is marked by various challenges, nurses are expected to make precise and appropriate decisions. Confidence in decision-making is considered a vital element in the nursing profession. Given the ambiguities surrounding the concept of uncertainty, we aimed to conduct a concept analysis of uncertainty in nursing using the Walker and Avant’s approach.
Methods & Materials: This study is a concept analysis using the Walker and Avant’s approach to analyze the concept of uncertainty. Initially, a search was conducted on databases including Science Direct, SID, Medline, Iran Med, ProQuest, PubMed, and Scopus, using keywords such as uncertainty, nurse, and concept. A comprehensive review of articles published between 1990 and 2021 was then carried out, resulting in a total of 9 relevant articles.
Results: The literature review showed that uncertainty is an abstract and intricate concept that poses challenges in making informed decisions. In the context of nursing, uncertainty shares similarities with terms like confusion and doubt, while standing in contrast to concepts like self-confidence and assurance. The antecedents of uncertainty include the inability to make decisions and a lack of accountability. The consequence of uncertainty is the recognition of information needs, active pursuit of answers, and ultimately making informed and appropriate decisions.
Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that nurses encounter uncertainty when they are unable to make independent decisions. As uncertainty in nursing decision-making directly affects patient care, managers and planners can take proactive measures to mitigate this issue. By promoting knowledge and awareness, fostering motivation, and encouraging continuous learning among nurses, the level of uncertainty can be reduced. This, in turn, will contribute to the improvement and enhancement of patients’ health outcomes.
Raoofeh Karimi, Zahra Rooddehghan, Amirhossein Khajezadeh, Nikou Sardarpour, Mahsa Abbaszadeh, Mohammad Javad Ahmadzadeh Zeidi,
Volume 32, Issue 1 (4-2026)
Abstract
Background & Aim: Intolerance of uncertainty is an emerging psychological construct that may influence health-related behaviors, particularly treatment adherence. The present study aimed to determine the association between intolerance of uncertainty and treatment adherence in patients with diabetes.
Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional descriptive-correlational study was conducted in 2024 on 103 patients with diabetes referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran. Samples were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a demographic and clinical characteristics form, the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, and the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale developed by Freeston et al. Data were analyzed using descriptive (mean, standard deviation, and frequency) and inferential statistics (independent t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and one-way ANOVA) in SPSS version 16.
Results: Intolerance of uncertainty showed a significant positive correlation with age (r=0.27, P=0.006) and a significant negative correlation with diabetes duration (r=-0.27, P=0.006). Single participants had significantly higher levels of intolerance of uncertainty compared to married participants (P=0.005). Furthermore, treatment adherence demonstrated a significant positive relationship with age (r=0.34, P<0.001) and was higher among women (P=0.021) and single individuals (P=0.032). Among the participants, 50 individuals (48.5%) had high intolerance of uncertainty, and 44 individuals (42.7%) had low treatment adherence. A significant positive correlation was observed between intolerance of uncertainty and treatment adherence (r=0.65, P<0.001).
Conclusion: The findings of the present study indicate that diabetic patients who experience higher levels of intolerance of uncertainty are more likely to adopt treatment adherence as a coping strategy when faced with uncertain circumstances and unpredictable outcomes of their disease. This behavior serves as a means to reduce psychological distress and regain a sense of control. These findings underscore the importance of addressing psychological dimensions, particularly intolerance of uncertainty, by nurses and other healthcare team members. However, due to the cross-sectional nature of this study and other limitations, the interpretation of the results should be approached with caution.
