Nursing students' perceptions about clinical learning environment in Turkey

Clinical education has a vital role in nursing curriculum. Clinical education environment can be enhanced by feedbacks provided by students. The purpose of this research was to search factors that affect the clinical learning environment. A qualitative approach was used. 36 nursing students were recruited from school of nursing in Turkey. It was found that students are negatively affected by communication errors and feedbacks given in the presence of patients by instructors. The constant presence of instructors may be the source of stress for some students. Besides peer support and favourable communication with peers have a positive impact on student learning. Communication with hospital staff and instructors are important. The study revealed that student learning is affected by the level of confidence and support displayed by patients. In order to ensure the most favourable learning environment for students, it is essential that cooperation should be increased between school staff and clinical staff, instructor skills should be developed, and students should be supported in the clinical environment.