Nursing Education Amid a Pandemic: Mental Health in a Time of Virtual Learning.

Abstract

The unprecedented pandemic presented new stresses and challenges in nursing education impacting the mental health of nursing students. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between virtual learning and the mental health of nursing students. This study used a descriptive, cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 256 nursing students enrolled in a baccalaureate program. Data were collected through an online survey using 2 screening tools for stress, anxiety, and depression. Mean sum Patient Health Questionnaire-4 scores and subscale scores suggest that more than 40% of students experienced mild to moderate levels of psychological distress. Mean sum Perceived Stress Scale-10 scores indicate 84% of students experienced moderate levels of stress, and 14% experienced high levels of stress. During periods of societal crisis, faculty must be hypervigilant to the mental health needs of students.