Exploring the perception of nursing students facing burnout in clinical settings during COVID pandemic

Abstract Aim. The purpose of this study was to learn about the experience of the group of students who are at high risk for experiencing burnout and nursing shortage. This study seeks to reveal students’ perception of nursing burnout and nursing shortage observed during a clinical course. Material and methods. This study was conducted with a qualitative method using conventional content analysis approach. Data were collected by conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews. Results. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts identified four core themes, with corresponding sub-themes: Sources of burnout, Uncertainty, Coping Strategies, Varying faculty support during clinical rotation. This study proves that nursing students experienced similar feelings of burnout and emotional strain during their clinical rotation during COVID. Evidence highlights the impact of psychological stress on nursing students in pandemic circumstances and additionally the stress of completing all required competencies to complete their degree. Conclusions. The findings of this study include sources of burnout such as working conditions, workload, dealing with suffering, death, and dying, and uncertainty in the present and future such as the evolving and changing understanding of COVID. Coping mechanisms involve staying positive and talking to family and friends. Finally, the varied opinions of the students regarding emotions and feelings of support from faculty.