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Abstract
Objective: To explore nursing students’ experiences of communicating with patients during clinical practice.
Methods: A qualitative study was conducted with 12 final-year nursing students using semi-structured in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using Giorgi’s phenomenological method. Ethical principles were adhered to, and trustworthiness was ensured according to Lincoln and Guba’s criteria.
Results: Five major themes emerged from nursing students’ experiences of communicating with patients: (1) confidence as a key factor; (2) anxiety, fear, and stress; (3) feelings of disappointment; (4) comfort and excitement; and (5) efforts to improve communication. Over the course of clinical practice, students progressed from anxiety and lack of confidence to greater comfort, confidence, and initiative in communication. Clinical experience and self-directed efforts played important roles in developing their communication competence.
Conclusion: Nursing students’ communication is influenced by confidence, emotions, and clinical experience. Strengthening communication skills training, providing psychological support, and fostering a supportive clinical learning environment may enhance nursing students’ communication competence.
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References
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