Coping strategies among novice nursing students during clinical practice: A phenomenological study

Although clinical practice is a significant and essential component of nursing students' education, exposure to clinical practice environment can be a source of significant stress and anxiety especially for the novice nursing students. Students often attempt to control and reduce their stress levels through using of different coping strategies. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore in depth coping strategies among novice nursing students during clinical practice. The guided research question was ''What are the coping strategies among novice nursing students during their clinical practice?' A phenomenological qualitative research approach was used with a purposive sample of 12 nursing students. Data collected through face to face semi structured individual interviews. Three themes were emerged from the data analysis, they are: problem solving coping strategies; cognitive/emotion coping strategies; and searching for support. The study concluded that novice nursing students used different coping strategies to overcome stresses related to clinical practice. Based on the study findings, incorporating stress management classes into orientation activities for novice nursing students is strongly recommended.