Exploring Novice Nurses' Experiences During the First Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic affected how nurses learn and prepare for their fu-ture careers. This study explored the experiences of college -prepared, novice nurses pursuing a baccalaureate degree during the first wave of the pandemic. Method: This quali-tative descriptive study analyzed students' individual reflec-tive assignments describing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on novice nurses' personal, professional, and educational lives. Results:Three themes emerged: (1) emo-tions generated in the clinical workplace due to the lack of control and the unknown of working as novice nurses dur-ing a pandemic; (2) cognitive dissonance of the nursing role regarding novice nurses' moral distress and their growing empowerment within the scope of practice; and (3) a dis-concerted image of nursing with contrasting views of nurs-ing from the public's perspective and a disconnect between frontline workers and decision makers. Conclusion: Novel pedagogical strategies are needed to help novice nurses cope with stress, uncertainty, and role challenges to foster healthy learning in academic and working environments.