Nursing students' experiences of the peripheral intravenous catheter insertion process: A qualitative study

This study was conducted to examine in depth the experiences of nursing students regarding the peripheral intravenous catheter insertion process.

The population of this qualitative descriptive study comprised second-year students in the Department of Nursing; the sample consisted of 10 students selected using maximum variation sampling. Data were collected between May 8 and 22, 2026 using a semi-structured interview form. The study, which employed inductive content analysis, was conducted in accordance with the COREQ guidelines.

Students reported experiencing notable anxiety and fear during their initial clinical placements, while support from clinical nurses enhanced their self-confidence and eased communication challenges with patients. Participants frequently encountered difficulties when attempting catheterization in obese patients or individuals with difficult-to-locate veins, typically relying on experienced staff for assistance in these situations. Educational videos served as the primary learning resource, with the laboratory setting fulfilling a preparatory function and the clinical environment providing instructional value for mastering IV catheterization skills.

Students highlighted the need for improved laboratory conditions, increased practical teaching hours, reduced student group sizes during laboratory sessions and the implementation of a dedicated clinical placement program.