The learning experiences of student nurses in the perioperative environment: An integrative literature review

For the Student Nurse placement in the perioperative environment provides an opportunity to observe and engage in preoperative, intraoperative, and immediate postoperative care of the surgical patient. To date no synthesis of empirical studies has been undertaken to ascertain the learning impact of the perioperative experience. The objectives of this review were to identify and synthesise the literature on the learning experiences of student nurses within the perioperative environment.

An integrative review that followed Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) framework.

Studies published between 2012 and 2022 were identified via a comprehensive search of the following databases: CINAHL, Medline (OVID), Medline (Pubmed), Medline (EBSCO), EMBASE, PsychINFO, ISI Web of Science and SCOPUS.

The review was reported in line with the Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). The initial search located 1475 Articles. After screening and checking for eligibility 17 articles were selected. These were critically appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP). The papers were analysed and reported in a narrative synthesis.

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Three categories with five sub categories were identified including: Learning opportunities, Appreciation for perioperative role and intent to return and Factors influencing student learning.

A large variety of student learning occurs within the perioperative clinical environment. Students viewed staff nurses as positive role models in an environment that posed opportunities and challenges for student learning. Anxiety and stress in an unfamiliar environment were commonly mentioned with students offering recommendations to improve their experience.