Interaction with an ostomy patient in a laboratory setting: Expectations and experiences of first-year nursing students

Abstract

BackgroundInteracting with real patients is an important component of nursing education in all learning settings. ObjectivesThis study aimed to determine the expectations and experiences of first-year nursing students' interaction with a real patient with an ostomy in the clinical skill laboratory. MethodThe phenomenological qualitative study was carried out with 17 first-year undergraduate nursing students. Data was collected via focus group interviews during pre- and post-nursing students and real patient with an ostomy interaction. Semi-structured questions were used during the focus group interviews. The data were analyzed by inductive content analysis method. ResultsThe findings are presented under two contexts: expectations of first-year nursing students related to interaction with an ostomy patient and experiences of first-year nursing students related to interaction with an ostomy patient. The two contexts were divided into five main themes: Emotions regarding interaction with a real patient with an ostomy, providing ostomy care to a real patient with an ostomy, predictions for living with an ostomy, effects of interaction with a real patient with an ostomy, and real patient engagement in nursing education. ConclusionsIn consequence of the research, the first-year nursing students were enthusiastic about the interaction with the real patient. The most important contribution to interaction with a patient was breaking down the prejudices of students concerning being a patient and having an illness. Real patients should engage in varied learning environments in nursing education, particularly via patients with different illnesses and health conditions.