Caring in uncertain territory: Nursing students’ encounters with patients’ existential concerns during clinical placements

Encountering patients' existential concerns challenges students but creates personal and professional growth. Nursing students engage deeply in care, experiencing compassion that can evoke feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. They need educational support and preceptors' guidance to reflect on these emotional encounters. Integrating existential reflection, self-compassion, and structured support helps them become professional and compassionate nurses.