Fear of Contagion Among Nursing Students in the Era of COVID-19

COVID-19 quickly spread to pandemic proportions, resulting in anxiety and fear for many students. The Fear of Contagion model was explored in first-semester nursing students.

This study used a qualitative design with content analysis of narrative responses to questions derived from the Fear of Contagion model and an a priori template based on the model.

The results included five themes: (a) doing their part to prevent the spread but wanting to do more; (b) making specific behavior changes to prevent the spread and effects of the virus; (c) experiencing fear, anxiety, and stress; (d) uncertainty but hopefulness; and (e) positive regard and concern for others.

Fear of contagion in this study reflected many of the elements of the original model. Interventions to not only reduce fear but also facilitate education are recommended for nursing educators. [.