Exploring the experiences of student mental health nurses from ethnic minority backgrounds working through the COVID-19 pandemic: a phenomenological approach

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds more than any other group. The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of mental health students from ethnic minorities who worked during the COVID-19 pandemic in a mental health NHS trust. This study used phenomenology as the theoretical framework and thematic analysis as a method for data analysis. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 student mental health nurses, which were held via Microsoft Teams. The four themes that emerged from this study were altruism, a sense of connectedness, support and learning opportunities, and role clarity. Students described a sense of altruism while deciding to opt-in to the extended placement. Some also found their faith to be a source of support and resilience, which provided a sense of connectedness. Support was an essential element that emerged in this study where students could rely on both the university and the mental health NHS trust. The learning opportunities that COVID-19 has presented have helped bridge the gap between the physical and mental wellbeing of patients; however, a lack of clarity in their roles was highlighted. Adequate and appropriate policies and guidance to support student nurses are needed when working in crisis situations.