RESUMEN
INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the indirect relationship of job stress with triage competency through professional self-concept among emergency nurses in Korea. METHODS: A secondary data analysis of survey data from 132 questionnaires was used. A convenience sample of emergency nurses working in regional or local emergency centers in 2 Korean cities was recruited for the survey. Study variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and a model tested using the Hayes PROCESS macro (Model 4) mediation model. RESULTS: Job stress alone was not associated directly with triage competency (ß = 0.01, P = .74). An indirect pathway was observed between job stress and triage competency through professional self-concept (F = 5.85, P < .001, R2 = 0.33). In the tested model, job stress was associated with professional self-concept (ß = -0.05, P < .05) and professional self-concept was associated with triage competency (ß = 0.79, P ≤ .001). CONCLUSION: Professional self-concept may be an important determinant of triage competency among emergency nurses. To increase triage competency among emergency nurses, individual nurse and management efforts are recommended to foster professional self-concept and reduce emergency nurse job stress.