Using clinical skills laboratories to promote theory-practice integration during first practice placement: an Irish...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• The integration of theoretical knowledge with practical skills is a long-standing challenge in nursing education.
• Previous studies indicate clinical skills laboratories (CSLs) aid theory-practice integration, yet Irish context data is limited.
• This study addresses the gap by examining Irish nursing students' experiences with CSLs and practice placements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore nursing students' experiences during their first practice placement.
• To identify learning sources and skills acquired during the initial placement.
• To assess the impact of pre-placement CSL training on theory-practice integration.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative methodology using a Heideggerian phenomenological approach.
• Purposeful sampling selected six first-year nursing students.
• Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using the Giorgi method.

Main Results:

• Students reported CSL sessions on basic nursing skills (e.g., vital signs, hygiene) were beneficial.
• CSL training facilitated the integration of theory with practice during their first placement.
• Participants found CSLs instrumental in linking academic learning to clinical application.

Conclusions:

• Adequate preparation in clinical skills is crucial for nursing students' competence.
• Educators and practitioners should prioritize theory-practice integration to enhance nursing education.
• CSLs are vital for developing collaborative skills and preparing students for clinical practice.