Measuring Self-Care Practices Among Nurses at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) During a Conflict Crisis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Nursing staff members, especially in conflict-affected environments, face significant physical, emotional, and psychological challenges that can negatively influence their well-being and the quality of care they provide. Although attentive self care is recognized as a crucial preventive element for health professionals worldwide, there is limited knowledge regarding its frequency and determinants among nurses in Lebanon amid ongoing crises. Objectives: This study aimed to measure mindful self-care practices among nurses at the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) during a period of conflict and to examine the association between self-care practices and self-rated health, as well as the influence of demographic and occupational factors. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative survey was performed among registered nurses at AUBMC (N = 245; response rate: 38.7%). Mindful self-care practices have been assessed using the validated Mindful Self-Care Scale (MSCS), while a single-item questionnaire assessed self-rated health. Demographic (e.g., age, gender, marital status, nationality, and educational level) and occupational factors (e.g., department, clinical position, years of experience, and work shift pattern) were also collected. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, and regression analyses were conducted to assess self-care levels, associations with self-rated health, and significant predictors. Results: Nurses reported a moderate overall level of mindful self-care (mean = 3.06, SD = 0.63). Supportive relationships (mean = 3.35) and mindful awareness (mean = 3.29) were the most frequently practiced domains, while physical care (mean = 2.69) and mindful relaxation (mean = 2.70) scored lowest. Overall self-care was significantly associated with self-rated health (r = 0.32, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified nationality, marital status, and self-rated health as significant predictors of mindful self care. Notably, oncology and emergency nurses reported the lowest self-care engagement. Mindful self-care was a strong predictor of high self-rated health (OR = 3.84, 95% CI: 2.12–6.99, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Mindful self-care is essential for maintaining nurses' health and resilience in crisis environments. The study highlights the need for organizational efforts focusing on physical care and relaxation to support nurse well-being. Customized wellness programs at institutions like the AUBMC Wellness Center are recommended to improve the least practiced areas of self-care. Further research with long-term studies is necessary to determine cause-and-effect relationships and evaluate the lasting effects of self-care initiatives.