Internet use, eHealth literacy and fear of COVID-19 among nursing students in the Philippines

Abstract

The COVID-19 outbreak situation brought into focus not only the safety but also the mental wellbeing of nursing students. At present, the level of fear of COVID-19 and associated factors among nursing students in the Philippines is not well understood. This cross-sectional online survey determined the relationship between Internet use and eHealth literacy with fear of COVID-19. One thousand three hundred and sixty-seven (n=1,367) answered an online survey using the adopted eHealth Literacy Scale (eHEALS), and Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) administered from May 1 to 15, 2020. Descriptive statistics, tests for differences, and correlational analysis were performed. Results indicated that the composite score of the FCV-19S was 3.65, indicating moderate to high levels of fear. Fear of COVID-19 significantly differed based on sex, year level, and location. A significant inverse relationship was found between the average daily use of the Internet and fear of COVID-19. On the other hand, no significant association was noted between eHealth literacy and fear of COVID-19. The first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in a far-reaching impact on nursing students' psychological wellbeing. This study highlights the value of the Internet and its use during the outbreak may not always lead to higher fear related to COVID-19. Nursing schools may need to create strategies to promote regulated and responsible Internet use, address students' mental health concerns and develop interventions to respond proactively to mitigate or reduce fear among nursing students during the pandemic.

Nursing students’ clinical practices during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Fear of COVID‐19 and anxiety levels

“…Studies have found that nursing students had moderate to severe levels of fear of COVID-19. [21][22][23][24] A study found that undergraduate students who started to work in clinics due to the need for nurses during the pandemic experienced fear about their responsibility for nursing care. 11 The causes of their fears include close contact with patients, lack of knowledge about the clinical environment, and the fear of infecting family members.…”

Predicting nursing students' intention to attend face‐to‐face classes on school reopening: A theory of planned behavior application

“…14 However, a study reported school reopening to be associated with anxiety and depression among students. 15 Considering that the COVID-19 global outbreak has created a negative impact and heightened fear among nursing students, [16][17][18] understanding the key factors that influence students' intention to attend face-to-face classes is important as schools prepare for the safe re-entry of students in campuses. 10 This study can provide a better understanding of the potential factors that contribute to the intention of nursing students to attend face-to-face instruction after almost 2 years of distance learning.…”

Nursing Students’ Clinical Practice Experience during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

“…The pandemic, however, gives students a chance to master technology [22]. Technology is used during online counseling and communication due to the lack of face-to-face meetings [6]. Guidance is provided either offline or online meetings.…”

“…When most people live far from the hospital, nursing students must be present there. A study found that students feel anxious about exercise during a pandemic [6]. Being in clinical practice is a challenge for students in terms of risk of infection, uncertainty, changing learning methods, and shorter duration [3].…”