The Experiences of ABSN Nursing Students’ During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Written by Rosemary Walulu

doi: https://doi.org/10.13178/jnparr.2025.1501.1508

Abstract

Background: The Coronavirus disease (COVID) pandemic has changed the way faculty can deliver nursing education in the classroom and clinical settings. Objectives: To explore the educational experiences of Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A descriptive qualitative research design was used. The study was conducted with fourth-semester nursing students in an ABSN program from January to April 2021. Data was collected using an online Qualtrics survey with open ended questions and demographics and analyzed using conventional content analysis.

Results: Fifteen fourth-semester ABSN students participated in the study. Participant ages ranged from 23–42 years, with a mean of 29.80 years. Thirteen of the participants (86.7%) were female and two (13.3%) were male. Twelve (80%) of the participants were Hispanic/Latino, two (13.3%) were Native American, and one (6.7%) was White. Three themes emerged from the data describing the experiences “It was challenging/difficult,” “Having an impact,” and “Having support.”

Conclusion: Participants in this study experienced challenges/difficulties during the pandemic when the program was transitioned to online learning. Participants came to appreciate the role of nursing advocacy and various types of isolation precautions. The participants’ desires to become nurses were reinforced. Support from family members, peers, faculty, and staff was essential for the participants to persevere, complete the program, and achieve their goals. Support from faculty helped participants manage their stress.

Keywords: COVID-19, Education, Experience, Nursing Students, Pandemic, Qualitative study