Transition in learning during COVID‐19: Student nurse anxiety, stress, and resource support

Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this study was to explore anxiety and stress experienced by first‐semester nursing students and identify sources of support during a transition from a face‐to‐face to an online learning platform during the first months of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This descriptive study used a web‐based survey distributed to nursing students 2 months after the completion of their first semester. The survey questions were adapted from the Anxiety Symptoms Checklist and the College Student Stress Scale. The survey link was emailed to 79 students, with 56 consenting, and 50 completing the survey. The most commonly reported symptoms were difficulty concentrating (90%) and feeling anxious or overwhelmed (84%). Most respondents reported anxiety related to the pandemic, with 84% being concerned about a friend or relative contracting COVID‐19, and with 70% fearful of becoming infected themselves. The majority of respondents expressed concerns related to difficulty handling academic workload (62%), and the need to perform well in school (56%). To decrease anxiety and stress, the faculty should foster a structured learning environment; abide by the course schedule; communicate changes or updates in a timely fashion; adapt assignments to fit the learning environment; utilize campus, local, state, and national resources; practice self‐care; and extend grace.