Challenges in clinical training for professional nurse students: A
qualitative study

Challenges in clinical training for professional nurse students: A
qualitative study

communication barriers; clinical training; emotional strain;
nursing education; qualitative study

Background: Clinical training is a cornerstone of nursing education,
equipping students with the practical competencies required for professional
practice. However, professional nursing students often face significant
obstacles, including limited supervision, communication barriers, emotional
strain, and resource constraints that hinder their clinical learning. Despite
these concerns, few studies in Indonesia have systematically explored these
challenges, creating a gap in understanding the specific contextual factors
shaping clinical training experiences.
Purpose: This study aimed to explore the challenges experienced by
professional nursing students during clinical training in Indonesia.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-
structured interviews with 25 professional nursing students from accredited

nursing programs in Indonesia. Data collection occurred between March
and June 2025 to provide temporal context. Participants were purposively
sampled to ensure diverse experiences. Thematic analysis followed Braun
and Clarke’s six-step framework, and NVivo software supported data
management. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, dependability,
confirmability, and transferability strategies.
Results: Analysis revealed five central themes: (1) Inadequate clinical
supervision, characterized by limited instructor availability and insufficient
feedback; (2) Communication barriers, including hierarchical dynamics,
medical jargon, and language differences; (3) Emotional and psychological
strain, stemming from high workloads and performance anxiety; (4)
Resource constraints, such as limited access to modern tools and simulation
facilities; and (5) Interpersonal challenges, involving peer competition and
difficulties in collaborative learning. These issues were further influenced by
Indonesia’s cultural and institutional context.
Conclusion: Overcoming these barriers requires a holistic strategy
encompassing improved student-to-instructor ratios, enhanced
communication training, stress management initiatives, investment in
educational resources, and fostering positive peer relationships. Institutional
dedication to these interventions is critical to advancing clinical training
outcomes and cultivating competent nursing professionals.

Naryati Naryati1,3, Muhammad Hadi1 , Rizki Nugraha Agung2 , Melati
Fajarini1*

http://jkp.fkep.unpad.ac.id/index.
php/jkp

December 20, 2025

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