Student nurses swap scrubs for smocks

Student nurses at the University of Exeter are swapping scrubs for smocks as they use art to deepen their understanding of patient experiences while finding a creative outlet for stress.

Returning for its third year, the Art and History of Nursing exhibition opens on Friday, 14 February, showcasing a diverse range of original works by undergraduate nursing students. The collection, featuring paintings, poetry, sculpture, and song, is the result of a module designed to explore the history of nursing and the lived experiences of health, illness, and caregiving through artistic expression.

Dr Marie Clancy, Senior Lecturer and module lead, highlights the exhibition’s significance: “This module helps students gain insights into patient care while also equipping them with creative coping mechanisms for the challenges of nursing. The creativity and depth of understanding demonstrated by our students are truly inspiring, and we see a noticeable difference in their empathy and responses to stressful situations after completing the module.”

The module fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, engaging practice partners, charity organisations, patient volunteers, and university departments such as chaplaincy, medical humanities, and classics. It encourages students to reflect on the privileges and challenges of contemporary nursing while stimulating discussion on vital healthcare topics.

Among the contributors are members of Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), who use their personal experiences to shape healthcare research and education. One standout piece is a song by PPIE member Indiana Bird, featuring the lyric: “Burying every imperfection, too scared to look at my own reflection.” The song reflects her experiences of living with a genetic condition. Meanwhile, a collage by Fergus McDonald, who has Down syndrome, challenges perceptions by illustrating his passion for heavy metal, hobbies, and active lifestyle.

Through their work, students explore complex themes such as racism, abortion, cancer, and stigma, prompting reflection on aspects of health and care beyond clinical practice.

Fourth-year student Amber Pritchard, who used textiles to express her experiences caring for an oncology patient, said: “This module has shown me how I can integrate art into my work. I never imagined bringing creativity into nursing, but it has given me a new understanding of patient perspectives.”

Fellow student Stephen Bazeley added: “We place so much value on empirical knowledge and often ignore other forms of understanding. Art allows us to communicate emotions and experiences that might otherwise go unspoken. This module has given me a tool I will carry into my nursing career.”

The Art and History of Nursing exhibition will be open to the public from 09:00-12:30 on Friday, 14 February, in Baring Court Room 03, University of Exeter, St Luke’s Campus.

All are welcome to attend and experience this compelling showcase of creativity and compassion in nursing.