Psychological adjustment and growth of graduate nursing students under the dual stress of research and practicum: a qualitative study - Report - MDSpire

Psychological adjustment and growth of graduate nursing students under the dual stress of research and practicum: a qualitative study

  • By

  • Ruoxuan An

  • Jing Cheng

  • Xuefen Lan

  • Xiaotong Han

  • Wancheng Liao

  • Liandan Lin

  • Minhua Chen

  • Yanni Zhang

  • May 29, 2026

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Mental Adaptation and Development of Graduate Nursing Students Facing Combined Challenges

Overview

This study explores the psychological experiences of graduate nursing students under the dual pressures of clinical practice and academic research. Findings indicate that while students develop coping mechanisms and enhance their competencies, they also face significant negative psychological experiences.

Background

The increasing demand for advanced nursing education in China has led to a rise in the number of graduate nursing students. These students encounter a unique 'dual stress period' as they balance rigorous clinical responsibilities with academic research, which can adversely affect their mental health and professional identity. Understanding their psychological experiences is crucial for developing effective support systems.

Data Highlights

No numerical data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • Four themes identified: negative experiences of dual stress, coping mechanisms, positive effects of dual stress, and the inner need for graduate nursing education.
  • Students reported adverse psychological experiences due to the pressures of internships and research tasks.
  • Various coping strategies were employed by students to manage their stress and enhance their academic and clinical performance.
  • Internships and research studies contributed to the students' overall competence and understanding of their professional needs.
  • There is a need for educational institutions to monitor the emotional states of nursing students and provide comprehensive support.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare institutions should implement monitoring systems to assess the emotional well-being of graduate nursing students. Providing targeted support and resources can enhance their coping skills and overall educational experience.

Conclusion

Addressing the psychological challenges faced by graduate nursing students is essential for their professional development and mental health. Enhanced support systems can lead to improved outcomes in both clinical practice and academic success.

Related Resources & Content

  1. DIGITAL HEALTH, SAGE Journals, 2026 -- Efficacy of a mobile-based intervention for newly graduated nurses: A randomized controlled trial
  2. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2026 -- Pediatric Clinical Nurses' Role Conflict and Adaptation Status: Time for Improvement
  3. Frontiers in Medicine, 2026 -- Exploring senior nursing students’ perspectives on humanizing care for patients in isolation: a qualitative study
  4. Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) guideline for mental, neurological and substance use disorders: executive summary, WHO, 2025
  5. Impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress, anxiety and depression among nursing students: A systematic review and meta-analysis, PubMed, 2026
  6. Frontiers in Medicine — Analysis of the status of perceived professional benefits among nursing students and their relationship with teaching behaviors among nursing teachers
  7. Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) guideline for mental, neurological and substance use disorders: executive summary
  8. Impact of mindfulness-based interventions on stress, anxiety and depression among nursing students: A systematic review and meta-analysis - PubMed
  9. Investigating the impact of the RENEW program on enhancing nurses’ resilience: a randomized controlled trial | BMC Psychology | Springer Nature Link

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