Student nurses' perceptions of clinical placements in Australian Prison Health Services: A mixed methods study. (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van de Mortel, Thea F.; Needham, Judith; Barnewall, Kate; Djachenko, Ashleigh; Patrick, Jennifer
• Is Part Of: Nurse education in practice. Volume 24(2017:May)
• Page Start: 55
• Page End: 61
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: Nursing students -- Prison health services -- Clinical placement -- Survey; Nursing -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Education, Nursing -- Periodicals; Nursing -- Study and teaching; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 610.73071
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2017.04.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-5953

Abstract

Abstract: Increasing demands for clinical placements have forced tertiary institutions to look for alternative placements for third year nursing students. While Prison Health Services provide an opportunity for nursing students to engage in care of offender populations with significant chronic illnesses, there has been little evaluation of such placements. Third year undergraduate nurses (18/46) participated in a mixed methods study to provide evidence-based research on students' perceptions of clinical placements in Prison Health Services. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via an anonymous survey and individual interview. Whilst the majority of students valued the opportunity to increase their knowledge and clinical skills and felt supported by preceptors, challenges included being psychologically ill-prepared for the physical and emotional aspects of placement, and witnessing poor attitudes and behaviours of staff, which impacted on the quality of their experience. Recommendations include changes to orientation programs and introduction of simulation to help students feel better prepared and supported during placements in prison settings. Refining the selection process for placements in this setting will also help to ensure student suitability for clinical placement in Prison Health Services. Highlights: Eighty-nine percent of students who attended a prison placement rated it as effective. Students wanted a detailed orientation and psychological preparation for dealing with offenders. Preceptors needed training on providing constructive feedback and managing group dynamics.