The perception of training and professional development according to nursing students as health workers during COVID-19: A qualitative study.

Abstract Aim To explore the perception of education and professional development of final-year nursing students who carried out health relief tasks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Background The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a global health emergency. This situation has exacerbated the need for additional healthcare employees, forcing the Spanish government to incorporate volunteer nursing students as auxiliary health staff. Design A qualitative study framed in the constructivist paradigm. Methods Twenty-two students of nursing were recruited. A purposeful sampling was implemented until reaching saturation. A semi-structured interview as a conversational technique was used to collect information based on three dimensions: academic curriculum, disciplinary professional development, and patient care. Subsequently, a content analysis of the information was carried out. Three phases were followed in the data analysis process: theoretical, descriptive-analytical, and interpretive. The COREQ checklist was used to evaluate the study. Results The most important results are linked to the students’ professional and academic preparation, how the nurses handled the pandemic situation and the characteristics of the COVID-19 patients. Conclusions Students require training in order to offer holistic care to patients, adapted to the context. Participants highlight the importance of professional values and recognize a high level of competence and autonomy in nurses.