Jennifer Lamswood

Researchers at Western Regional School of Nursing (WRSON) conducted a study to explore factors affecting nursing students who choose to work during their studies.

WRSON faculty Gina Randell, Peggy Hancock and Jennifer Lamswood, along with former faculty members Pamela Moores and Daphne Kennedy, and Darin Brooks, College of the North Atlantic faculty member, investigated the incidence of student employment, why students work during school, characteristics of students' work patterns (nature of the job, hours of work, rate of pay, other sources of income); and student perceptions of how work impacts their academic/professional development and personal lives.

Gina Randell

"Nursing students often engage in paid employment," said Jennifer Lamswood, "but there is a lack of Canadian research exploring the incidence and effects of working on nursing students."

Using a descriptive study approach through a "Paid Work Questionnaire," the researchers canvassed 128 nursing students at an Atlantic Canadian school of nursing. Of those students, 71 indicated they held employment during their studies. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis.

Peggy Hancock

Just over half of participants reported working while attending nursing school. Results provided insight into the types of common student jobs and hours worked. Employment, although often necessary, has been shown influence a student's perception of their academic success. Implications for client safety as well as nursing school attrition were also identified. Additional challenges of working, as derived from qualitative data, include effects on work-life balance, academic success, and stress. Results also highlighted benefits of working, such as effects on socialization, professional development/skills and attributes, as well as financial benefits.

"Educators and governments have a role to play in supporting nursing students and addressing the challenges experienced by students who work," said Ms. Lamswood. "Students can benefit from engaging in paid employment; however, creative solutions related to educational and financial support should be explored."

Funding for this study was provided through a WRSON Research Fund Grant as well as a Grenfell Campus VP Research Award.