The impact of cognitive fusion on stress among nurses: Exploring gender as a moderator controlling for depressive symptoms.

This study underscores the importance of cognitive fusion in understanding and managing stress among nurses. The moderating effect of gender highlights the need for tailored interventions. Reducing stress among nurses may benefit their mental health and potentially enhance patient care and treatment outcomes. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE AND POLICY: The study highlights crucial implications for nursing policy. Addressing cognitive fusion is vital to reducing nurse stress, directly impacting patient care quality and healthcare outcomes. Policymakers should prioritize gender-aware strategies within nursing policies, fostering a less stressful and more supportive work environment. By doing so, healthcare institutions can enhance the well-being of nurses and ultimately improve patient care, aligning with broader healthcare policy objectives of patient safety and quality improvement.