Veterinary Nursing Students' Experience in the Clinical Learning Environment and Factors Affecting Their Perception.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Education
• Psychology

Background:

• Student veterinary nurses (SVNs) gain essential practical skills in clinical learning environments (CLEs).
• Evaluating SVN satisfaction within the CLE is crucial for effective training.
• Factors influencing satisfaction require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the satisfaction levels of SVNs within the CLE.
• To identify key factors impacting SVN satisfaction, including psychological and personality variables.
• To explore qualitative aspects of the SVN clinical learning experience.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey design was employed.
• Validated instruments were used to measure satisfaction, resilience, well-being, personality, and workplace belonging.
• 171 SVNs participated, with additional qualitative data collected via open questions.

Main Results:

• 70.76% of SVNs reported being satisfied or very satisfied with their CLE.
• Depression, anxiety, stress, psychological sense of organizational membership, agreeableness, and emotional stability significantly impacted satisfaction scores.
• Qualitative data revealed specific factors that enhance or hinder clinical learning.

Conclusions:

• While a majority of SVNs are satisfied, specific psychological and personality factors are significant predictors of satisfaction.
• Veterinary practices and educational institutions should foster a sense of belonging and consider individual well-being and personality.
• Proactive support strategies, including open communication about learning needs, are vital for optimizing the SVN CLE experience.