Satisfaction and perceptions with clinical practicum course among graduating nursing students: a mixed methods study

To date, limited literature explored graduating nursing students’ satisfaction with different modes of practicum and the perceived impact on their future nursing practice. This study aims to explore the satisfaction and perceptions with clinical practicum course among graduating nursing students in Taiwan through a mixed-methods approach. A mixed-methods design comprises a questionnaire and qualitative content analysis. Grade 4 students of 4-year bachelor nursing program of a technological university in the north of Taiwan were recruited by purposive sampling, and it was conducted in May 2022. Students were invited to fill out a 5-point Likert scale to answer questions on their satisfaction with clinical practicum (online/school-based/traditional) and describe their experience and perception of online clinical practicum and school-based clinical practicum. Quantitative data were analysed using mean and standard deviation, and qualitative data were evaluated using content analysis. A total of 360 nursing students participated. The average scores for overall satisfaction with online, school-based and traditional practicums were 3.08 (± 0.83), 3.44 (± 0.71) and 3.85 (± 0.64), respectively, and those for satisfaction with the attitude of practicum teachers for online, school-based, and traditional practicums were 3.74 (± 0.81), 3.78 (± 0.81) and 3.85 (± 0.67), respectively. Qualitative analysis data consisted of three main themes: (1) A journey of mixed emotions through remote practicum: exploring joy and challenges; (2) Career prospects exploration and anxiety: contemplating future employment; and (3) Post-pandemic practicum experiences: reflections and growth. Graduating nursing students expressed the lowest level of satisfaction with the overall of online clinical practicums. Students believed that online and school-based clinical practicum could affect their future nursing competences and career choices. Healthcare institutions need to show high levels of understanding towards new nurses who could not gain sufficient practical experience due to the pandemic. Moreover, a training program for newcomers should be established to enhance patient care quality and help new nurses adapt to the workplace.