Incivility in Nursing Education: Experiences of Under-Graduate Nursing Students

Abstract

Incivility in nursing education is a pervasive issue that significantly impacts nursing students' clinical experience and psychological well-being. This study explored the forms and frequency of incivility encountered by clinical nursing students, documented its impacts and the coping mechanisms employed, and provided recommendations for interventions. A qualitative research approach involved focus group discussions with nursing students from Ambrose Alli University. The data was transcribed and analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that nursing students frequently experience various forms of incivility, including verbal abuse, inappropriate behaviour, and unprofessional conduct from senior nurses. These behaviours led to demotivation, frustration, and psychological stress, adversely affecting students' clinical learning experiences. Coping mechanisms identified included avoidance, confrontation, and normalization, indicating a need for more effective support systems. Participants suggested several interventions to mitigate incivility, such as implementing robust regulatory frameworks, enhancing institutional support, providing education and training for senior nurses, and establishing clear reporting mechanisms. The recommendations emphasize the importance of creating a respectful and supportive learning environment for nursing students. The study's findings align with existing literature on the negative impacts of incivility in nursing education and underscore the critical need for comprehensive strategies to address this issue. Educational institutions should integrate professionalism and ethics into the curriculum, establish strong mentorship programs, and monitor clinical placements. Healthcare organizations must implement and enforce policies against incivility, provide continuous professional development, and encourage positive behaviours. Future research should focus on expanding the sample size, conducting longitudinal studies, and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions across different contexts. Addressing incivility is essential for the professional development of nursing students and the overall quality of patient care, ensuring a competent and resilient nursing workforce.