Predictors of intention to dropout of training and intention to work in health care among nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Belgium
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- Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the global shortage of healthcare workers, including nurses. However, to date few studies have assessed during the pandemic (1) the intention of nursing students to dropout of training and (2) their intention to work in healthcare after graduation and (3) the factors that influence them. This study aimed to fill these knowledge gaps in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium. Methods: This online study was cross-sectional. During the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belgium, 1908 French-speaking nursing students completed the survey. The intention to dropout of training was assessed using an adapted version of the turnover intention scale and the intention to work in healthcare after graduation using a visual analogue scale. Logistic and linear multivariable regression models were performed to identify associated factors. Results: The proportion of students intending to dropout was 45% and their intention to work in healthcare was scored 8.2/10, a score of 0 meaning they would not accept a job and 10 meaning they would accept. The main risk factors for both outcomes were being at high risk in the three dimensions of academic burnout, and factors related to the pandemic such as having an increase workload or having cared for COVID-19 patient. Conversely, having specific support such as clinical debriefing was significantly associated with a lower probability of intending to dropout of training. Conclusion: This study highlighted that in the context of a pandemic, it is all the more important to provide emotional and material support to nursing students. For example, the implementation of interventions to prevent and manage academic burnout would have a positive effect on both the intention of nursing students to dropout of training and their intention to work in healthcare.