The psychological effects of working in the NHS during a pandemic on final-year students: part II

Abstract

This study explored the psychological experience of a small cohort of nursing and midwifery students who had been deployed to work in the NHS during the COVID-19 pandemic. The students were employed on band 4 contracts within an acute NHS Trust in the South of England. Overall, students found the experience of being deployed into clinical practice during a major public health emergency a valuable and unique experience that strengthened their resilience. However, students reported a significant level of personal obligation to opt-in to deployment. Working within clinical areas caused heightened anxiety and uncertainty, which was alleviated by managerial support.