Exeter student nurses swap scrubs for smocks in art show

Student nurses at the University of Exeter’s Academy of Nursing traded their scrubs for smocks in a bid to better understand their patients’ experiences while finding a creative outlet.

The third annual student art exhibition on Friday featured original works by undergraduate nursing students, including paintings, poetry, sculpture, and song.

Senior lecturer Dr Marie Clancy, said it “helps students gain insights into patient care and cope with the stress of being a nurse”.

“I’m constantly amazed by their creativity and insights, and I see a real difference in how they empathise with patients and handle stressful situations,” she said.

Student Indiana Bird wrote a song about her experience of wearing a stoma bag.

“I just want this song to show teenagers and young adults that it’s okay to be different, you shouldn’t have to hide it,” she said.

Fourth-year student Amber Pritchard, who used textiles to express her time caring for an oncology patient, said: “The module has shown me how to integrate art into my work, giving me a better understanding of patients’ perspectives.”

Fellow student Stephen Bazeley added: “Art can communicate ideas and emotions that are often difficult to express otherwise.

“This module has given me valuable insights and tools.”