The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Nursing Students and New Graduate Nurses: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background:Multiple studies have documented the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on nursing students’ mental health and learning experiences; however, none have synthesized these findings.Purpose:To identify the range and prevalence of mental health disorders and related stressors experienced by nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic by synthesizing the relevant literature published between 2020 and 2022.Methods:This scoping review examined the challenges and mental health consequences experienced by nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The databases were searched for relevant articles. Eight studies were identified and included in this analysis.Results:Three themes emerged: Fear of COVID-19, Sleep disturbances; Anxiety, Depression, and Stress as a consequence of experiencing the challenges caused by the pandemic.Implications for practice:Universities should provide nursing students with support that focuses on disaster management education and coping strategies to help improve their mental health.