Support for nursing and midwifery students: a special case?

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Student Support Services
• Mental Health in Higher Education

Background:

• Student attrition is a significant issue in nursing and midwifery programs.
• Increasingly complex student problems necessitate dedicated support systems.
• Existing university resources may not adequately address non-academic student needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact and student experience of Pastoral Care Support Advisers (PSA) in Scottish universities.
• To explore the support needs of nursing and midwifery students.
• To assess the effect of PSA services on student attrition and well-being.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews with staff (n=14) and students (n=25).
• Development and distribution of two online surveys to staff (n=88) and students (n=525).
• Analysis of quantitative and qualitative data on student support needs and PSA service utilization.

Main Results:

• A majority of staff reported students facing more complex issues and benefiting from dedicated support.
• Student anxiety and depression levels were above desirable levels; 75% reported experiencing problems.
• Students indicated PSA support was crucial in preventing them from leaving their courses; staff noted reduced non-academic support time.

Conclusions:

• Pastoral Care Support Advisers (PSA) are effective in addressing student needs and potentially reducing attrition in nursing and midwifery programs.
• The PSA service provides significant benefits to students, university staff, and the wider National Health Service.
• Implementing independent support services is recommended to enhance student retention and well-being in higher education.