Exploring the clinical accompaniment challenges second-year students experience at a nursing education institution in North West

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore the nursing students’ challenges of clinical accompaniment in a clinical learning environment (CLE). Method: A qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was used to conduct the study. Three focus group interviews were conducted and consisted of 31 participants. Focus group 1 had 9 participants and focus groups 2 and 3 comprised of 11 participants each. All interviews were audiotaped and transcribed and then analysed using content data analysis Results: Three main themes with categories and sub-categories emerged from the question that was asked from the nursing students. The identified challenges related ineffective communication, inconsiderate attitudes, insufficient resources, and inadequate planning. Conclusion: The guidelines should specify the annual authorised (by SANC) period of clinical accompaniment a nursing student should receive as well as the objectives for the particular level. Clinical facilitators should be provided with the necessary support and training to allow them to function according to the expectation of the Nursing Education Institution (NEI).