Experiences and Perceptions Gained by Student Nurse Externs Working During a Pandemic

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Qualitative Research
• Pandemic Response

Background:

• Limited data exists on student nurse externs' (SNEs) experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• The pandemic presented unique challenges for healthcare professionals and trainees.
• Understanding SNEs' perceptions is crucial for future nursing workforce preparedness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences and perceptions of SNEs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify key themes and challenges faced by SNEs in a clinical setting during a public health crisis.
• To inform nursing education and clinical practice regarding externship programs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 12 student nurse externs.
• Data collected during the summer of 2020.
• Colaizzi method used for phenomenological data analysis.

Main Results:

• Four emergent themes: appreciating holistic compassionate care, progressing from fear toward hope, desiring ethical decision-making skills, and recognizing communication barriers.
• SNEs demonstrated resilience and a commitment to patient care despite challenging circumstances.
• The experience highlighted areas for professional development and support.

Conclusions:

• Findings underscore the importance of communication, ethical decision-making, and disaster preparedness in nursing education.
• Externship programs can serve as vital bridges between academic learning and practical application.
• Recommendations include enhancing curriculum to address pandemic-related challenges and support SNEs' professional growth.