A Concept Mapping Study on Clinical Stress for Nursing Students during Clinical Practice

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the conceptual structure of stressors experienced by nursing students during clinical practice. Methods: Ten men and 10 women nursing college students were interviewed. The results were 208 ideas. By synthesizing and editing these ideas, the final statement was trimmed down to 39 questions. The next step was to have the participants classify these 39 final questions. They were asked to rate stress scores using a five-point scale. Through multidimensional scaling analysis and hierarchical cluster analysis yielded dimensions and clusters. Results: Results of the study showed 2 dimensions which were classified as 'interpersonal relationship-practice system' and 'identity-practice environment'. It also yielded 8 clusters which were classified as 'role confusion', 'gender discrimination', 'attitudes of medical personnel and patients', 'comparison between fellow students', 'difference between theory and practice', 'disestablishing the role of practice guide', 'interference with training', and 'problems of the practice environment'. Further, stress factors and stress levels were differentiated depending on the gender of the student. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that educators who are developing clinical practice programs and clinical practitioners should consider stressors during clinical practice and the educational implications to nursing students.

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