Clinical Experience of Family Nurse Practitioner Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

The aim of this study was to ascertain the experiences of Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) students participating in clinical experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify the clinical challenges faced by FNP students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Background: Literature reveals the current COVID-19 pandemic poses urgent and prolonged threats to the health and well-being of the population worldwide. FNP students have struggled to find clinical sites and preceptors during the pandemic. Design: A qualitative research design involving interviews asking open-ended questions to converse with students was conducted. Interviews were conducted during the fall 2021 semester. Method: All interviews were transcribed and analyzed. Each transcript was read multiple times and themes were developed. Three main themes emerged. Conclusion: Clinical experience is an intricate part of the program as confidence to treat and educate patients is paramount. The themes identified during student interviews included: 1) Anxiety and stress; 2) Hindrance of knowledge base; and 3) Personal growth. Recommendation: Utilization of telehealth during education and clinical experiences will assist the FNP student maintain success throughout the program.