Nurses’ attitudes and behaviors during bachelor of nursing students’ clinical learning experiences

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the nurse-student relationship during clinical learning experiences.

Methods: Students at all levels of a Bachelors nursing program completed the Nursing Student Perception of Civil and Uncivil Behaviors tool (NSPCUB) after clinical experiences during each semester over one calendar year at a small Midwestern university. The tool included 12 items, four demographic questions, and two qualitative questions.

Results: A total of 302 surveys were returned. The majority of surveys were completed by second semester students on a medical-surgical unit. The majority of students had positive experiences. Night shift nurses had a significantly higher mean on two variables. There was also statistical significance between second and third semester students on two variables. There were no statistical differences between units and hospitals. Student’s comments were mostly positive, though negative experiences still occurred.

Conclusions: Nurses can positively impact student’s clinical learning experiences. Students have both positive and negative experiences in the clinical setting. Several positive themes were identified including role modeling, skill acquisition/teaching, communication and critical thinking development. Negative themes also occurred including rudeness, feeling ignored and inappropriate behavior. Further research is recommended.