Self-Efficacy and Concerns of Graduate Nursing Students Regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic

Authors

  • Sarah Kershner Francis Marion University
  • Tracy George Francis Marion University
  • Julia Marty Hucks Francis Marion University

Abstract

Purpose: Many nurse practitioner students work as nurses while balancing family obligations and graduate school work.  The purpose of this project is to learn more about the self-efficacy and concerns of rural graduate nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Sample: Family nurse practitioner students at a rural, public, liberal arts university in the Southeastern United States participated in the study.

Method: Demographic information and survey information was obtained from graduate nursing students to assess their self-efficacy and concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, using the 10-item General Self-Efficacy (GSE) Scale.

Findings: Respondents reported varied effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on work schedules.  The mean GSE self-efficacy score was 3.32 across two-time points (n=67).  Nine qualitative themes were revealed: concerns about contracting and transmitting COVID-19, importance of personal protective equipment and hygiene, impacts at home, stress, decreased clinical placements, coping strategies, public health preparedness, future effects of COVID-10, and a renewed commitment to nursing.

Conclusion: This study provides insight into the experiences of rural graduate nursing students caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keywords: graduate nursing education, self-efficacy, pandemic, COVID-19

DOI:  https://doi.org/10.14574/ojrnhc.v21i2.678     

Author Biographies

Sarah Kershner, Francis Marion University

PhD, MPH
Chair, Department of Healthcare Administration and Assistant Professor, Public Health, School of Health Sciences

Tracy George, Francis Marion University

DNP, APRN-BC, CNE
Associate Professor of Nursing and Coordinator, Bachelor of General Studies Program, School of Health Sciences

Julia Marty Hucks, Francis Marion University

MN, APRN-BC, CNE
Assistant Professor of Nursing, School of Health Sciences

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Published

2021-12-21

Issue

Vol. 21 No. 2 (2021): Online Journal of Rural Nursing and Health Care, 21(2)

Section

Articles

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