Exploring the Psychological Landscape of Clinical Exposure: A Phenomenological Exploration of Student Nurses’ Challenges and Coping
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ijphn.v2i1.6701Keywords:
Clinical Exposure, Clinical Practice Experience, Nursing Education, Phenomenological Exploration, Student NursesAbstract
Clinical exposure serves as a pivotal stage where nursing students transition from theoretical understanding to real-world practice, shaping their professional growth and identity. However, this experience often brings emotional and psychological challenges that test their resilience and highlight the need for supportive educational environments. The research used a qualitative phenomenological approach to understand the lived experiences of nursing students during clinical exposure, drawing on their personal reflections and narratives to examine how they navigate the challenges of clinical training. The results indicate that nursing students experience significant psychological, physical, and practical challenges during clinical exposure that affect their confidence and emotional stability. Despite these difficulties, students demonstrate adaptive coping strategies that support learning, resilience, and gradual adjustment to clinical demands. The findings highlight that the psychological landscape of clinical exposure is shaped by both persistent stressors and adaptive coping processes, emphasizing the need to view clinical learning as a balanced experience of challenge, support, and personal growth.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Crishelle Ann E. Pitogo, Ira Mae N. Gabutan, Kezziah Dan B. de Paz, Princess Valentina Abecia, Christine Joy R. Guinitaran, Genie Rose L. Sigod, Sophia Doryss B. Toledo, Rafael M. Duran, Dr. Evan P. Taja-on
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