"Wheels stuck in the mud": A qualitative study of experiences of academic burnout in graduate nursing students

Background: Academic burnout is widespread in higher education, affecting academic achievements, professional development, and physical and mental health. Previous related research lacks qualitative studies on graduate nursing students. Aim: This study aims to provide valuable information to relevant authorities and stakeholders by identifying the key experiences associated with academic burnout in graduate nursing students. Design: An exploratory qualitative research design. Settings: This research was carried out at two medical universities located in the southern region of China. Participants: Nineteen enrolled graduate nursing students. Methods: Data collection spanned from December 2023 to January 2024. After obtaining informed consent from the participants, the researchers conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Data processing and analysis were based on Giorgi's phenomenological method. The reporting of this study strictly adhered to the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR). Results: Nineteen participants completed the interviews, ranging in age from 22 to 42 years and including sixteen females and three males. "Wheels stuck in mud" was the core construct that explained graduate nursing students' academic burnout. Analyses revealed four themes: invisible hand, a battle with myself, two choices, find my way. Conclusion: The academic burnout of nursing graduate students is perceived as a psychological dilemma akin to being "wheels stuck in mud." It is driven by an invisible force composed of multiple components, leading to intense internal struggles for individuals. Individuals exhibit two distinct trends in their academic performance: either "remaining detached and indifferent to academics" or "overcommitting and self-exploiting." It is encouraged to conduct intervention using an integrative strategy based on acceptance and commitment therapy, self-disclosure, and mindfulness.