Lived experiences of medical students during COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative research

Background: The COVID-19 outbreak has significantly impacted medical students worldwide. Considering the uniqueness of the situation, capturing the real-life experiences of individuals could enhance our understanding of the situation. The present study aimed to get an in-depth analysis of the lived experiences of medical students amid the COVID-19 crisis. Methods: This qualitative study employed an interpretative phenomenological methodology. Participants were chosen using purposive sampling, which was continued until data saturation was achieved. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen medical students of Tabriz Islamic Azad University to gather data. The collected data were then analyzed utilizing Graneheim and Lundman’s qualitative content analysis approach. Results: The data analysis revealed two overarching themes and ten associated subthemes. The first main theme, "opportunity for growth," was broken down into four subthemes: communication, adaptation, reflection, and pride. The second primary theme, "suffering and fear," was characterized by five subthemes: aggression, anxiety, grief, uncertainty, and isolation. These subthemes reflect the positive and negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the participants. Conclusion: The pandemic has brought about numerous challenges for medical students, necessitating the active intervention of universities to mitigate potential long-term repercussions. Addressing these dual aspects requires a multifaceted approach.