The self-efficacy in clinical practice among nursing students in Ho Chi Minh City: a cross-sectional study

Introduction: Self-efficacy plays a crucial role in the academic success and skill development of nursing students. Assessing self-efficacy in clinical practice is essential for implementing early interventions at nursing universities. This study aimed to explore the level of self-efficacy levels and associated factors among nursing students in a Vietnamese nursing institution. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2022 with the third- and fourth-year nursing students at University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The nursing competence self-efficacy scale was used to measure their self-efficacy in clinical practice. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to performed to examine the relationship between self-efficacy scores and socio-demographic characteristics as well as clinical practice. Results: Among 214 nursing students included in data analysis, the mean self-efficacy score in clinical practice was 230.4±27.5. Higher self-efficacy was found in fourth-year students (adjusted coef=24.8, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 17.22; 32.37, p<0.001), those with 20–30 weeks of clinical practice outside the university (adjusted coef=10.1, 95% CI: 1.00; 19.27, p=0.030), and those with higher score assessment of clinical learning environment (adjusted coef=18.1, 95% CI: 11.64; 24.63, p<0.001). However, lower self-efficacy was observed in females (adjusted coef=–11.4, 95% CI: –22.16; –0.54, p=0.040) and students with lower academic performance (adjusted coef=–13.8, 95% CI: –23.60; –3.90, p=0.006). Conclusions: Vietnamese nursing students exhibited a moderate level of self-efficacy in clinical practice. Regular evaluations are needed to identify areas for improvement. Updating and monitoring training programs to provide a structured and supportive practice environment will further enhance student’s self-efficacy.