Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 20, 2026

Using Visual and Narrative Methods to Achieve Fair Process in Clinical Care
Published on: February 16, 2011
Exploring the perception of nursing students about consequences of reflection in clinical settings
Shahnaz Karimi1, Fariba Haghani2, Nikoo Yamani3
1Ph.D. Student of Medical Education, Department of Medical Education, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran.
Background:
Reflection on practical experiences is a key element that enables students to recognize their own strengths and weaknesses and develop nursing skills. Whilst reflection may enhance students' learning in practice, there is little evidence about nursing students' perception of the consequences of reflection in clinical settings.
Objective:
This study aimed to explore Iranian nursing students' perception regarding the consequences of reflection during clinical practices.
Methods:
This qualitative study was conducted by a conventional content analysis approach in two nursing schools at Shiraz and Fasa Universities of Medical Sciences in Iran. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews during 2015-2016, from 20 students selected by purposive sampling. All the interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by content analysis method. Rigor of this study was approved by member check and external audit.
Results:
Two categories emerged from the data analysis, including movement toward professionalism and self-actualization of emotions. The former consisted of three subcategories of function modification, sharing experiences and generalizing experiences. The latter consisted of two subcategories of inner satisfaction and peace of mind.
Conclusion:
The results indicated that nursing students' reflection in clinical settings is effective in personal and professional levels. Reflection in a personal level led to positive emotions that increased the quality of care in patients. Accordingly, nursing educators need to create a nurturing climate as well as supporting reflective behaviors of nursing students.
Related Concept Videos
Critical Thinking I
Patient-centered Care
Obedience
Introspection
Ethical Dilemmas I
Let us explore some examples to understand the potentially complex moral decisions nurses face.
Take the case of caring for minors, particularly in areas related to reproductive...
Critical Thinking II

