Conference Proceedings - School of Nursing & Midwifery - Trinity ...

School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin: 8 th Annual Interdisciplinary Research Conference
Transforming Healthcare Through Research, Education & Technology: 7 th – 9 th November 2007
Conference Proceedings
qualitative study using semi-structured interviews and a focus
group.
Participants were level 4 nursing students from McMaster University
who had completed an international clinical placement in the
summer of 2006. Data were analyzed using a data analysis software
(NVivo) and triangulated with the research team.
Key Findings: Students described three phases of their clinical
journey during the international placement. Results indicated that
students’ experiences were diverse and very significant throughout
this time.
Four major themes were identified: “need to understand,”
“motivation for growth,” “engagement” and “awakening.” Students
recognized that their experiences were challenged by a variety of
events; but they were also exposed to rewarding moments as they
completed their course in the international setting.
Conclusions: The themes that emerged were similar to those
reported by other studies; but were also unique in their differences.
These findings demonstrated the importance of exposing nursing
students to experiences that would increase their cultural
competence thus having a positive impact on their professional
development.
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