Factors Influencing the Anxiety of Nursing Students in Clinical Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Objectives: Due to the prolonged COVID-19, the current society is experiencing increased anxiety and confusion about health care. In spite of this pandemic situation, nursing students are participated in practical training in the medical field to complete the curriculum. The purpose of this study was to determine the influencing factors of nursing students’ anxiety in participating in clinical practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. A total of 172 nursing students participated in the online self-questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, independent t-test, and multiple linear regression analysis using the SPSS software version 28.0.Results: There were significant differences in only anxiety according to gender (t=-4.42, p<0.001). Also, Anxiety showed a statistically significant negative correlation with attitude (r=-0.16, p=0.037) and preventive practice (r=-0.16, p=0.036). Results of regression analysis, gender (β=0.33, p<0.001) and attitude (β=0.18, p=0.026) were significant factors for the anxiety, and explanatory power was 16% (F=4.45, p<0.001).Conclusions: The results of this study can be used to develop nursing interventions that reduce anxiety and promote preventive practice for COVID-19 among nursing students.