Clinical and Mental Health Challenges Experienced by Nursing Students During Clinical Placements: A Scoping Review Protocol

Background Clinical placements are essential in nursing education because they enable students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world healthcare settings. However, nursing students frequently encounter clinical and mental health challenges that may negatively affect their learning and well-being. Previous reviews have investigated the emotional experiences associated with clinical placements. However, this proposed review stands out for clearly outlining both clinical and mental challenges, as well as the contexts in which these factors overlap. Objective This scoping review aims to map the extent, nature, and distribution of evidence on clinical and mental health challenges experienced by nursing students during clinical placements. Methods The review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews. PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Google Scholar will be searched, with no date restrictions. Eligibility will be guided by the Population–Concept–Context framework. Two independent reviewers will screen records using predefined eligibility criteria. Data will be charted using a standardized, pilot-tested extraction form and synthesized descriptively and thematically. The completed scoping review will be reported in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. Expected results The review is expected to identify the main clinical and mental health challenges experienced by nursing students during clinical placements, factors influencing these challenges, and gaps in the existing literature.