Restricted and hands-on clinical experience on patient care: Effects on the confidence and integrity of care among nursing students
Lorna B. Carpio, Sandra Covarrubias, Shirley Nolledo, Marry Ann A. Samson
Abstract
Given the evolution of the healthcare landscape, there is a growing need to equip nursing students with the necessary skills and competencies to adapt to rapid technological advancements, shifting patient demographics, and increasingly complex clinical environments. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of nursing students regarding restrictive academic experiences and how this affected their confidence and integrity towards patient care. Nursing students (n=18) were purposively sampled to be interviewed. Narratives were inductively interpreted to extract important insights about learning processes and self-perception. The findings indicated that students commonly experienced overthinking and anxiousness, manifesting as self-doubt, hesitation, and a persistent need for validation, all of which hindered clinical judgment and decision-making. Many struggled to bridge the gap between theoretical understanding and real-life application, leading to fears of making mistakes and emotional unpreparedness in clinical settings. In contrast, hands-on clinical experiences promoted the development of confidence through practice, observation, and conditioning. Students who engaged in repetitive tasks, observed professionals, or encountered real ethical dilemmas were better equipped to internalize skills, respond to emergencies, and uphold care integrity. These experiential opportunities allowed them to act decisively and with professionalism, transforming theoretical knowledge into confident clinical practice. Nursing students’ confidence and integrity in patient care are crucial for ensuring patient safety and quality healthcare. Adequate hands-on clinical exposure builds the practical skills and emotional readiness needed for competent, ethical nursing practice.