Experiences Resulting in Personal Development of Nursing Students in Clinical Training for Terminal-phase Patient Care

Abstract

〔Objectives〕Experiences related to nursing students’ personal development in clinical training for terminal-phase patient care were investigated.

〔Methods〕Nursing students managing terminal-phase patient care during practical training for adult nursing（N=10）were inquired about interactions with the patients and their families, focusing on their feelings and thoughts about these interactions. The content was analyzed using a qualitative and inductive method.

〔Results〕The students’ experiences related to their personal development were classified into the following categories: [interactions with patients and their families], [view of the self], and [a chance to progress]. [Interactions with patients and their families] by physically and psychologically approaching them led to [looking at the self], which was a virtuous cycle. Conversely, students sometimes tried to psychologically and physically avoid patients, which created a vicious cycle. Students got [a chance to progress] by increasing the former cycle and reduce the latter.

〔Conclusions〕Clinical training teachers and instructors play an essential role in reducing students’ anxiety in dealing with terminal phase patients and encouraging students to physically and psychologically approach patients and their families. Moreover, it is crucial to give lectures before practical training so that students desire to use their experience and knowledge.