Factors Associated with Resilience among Thai Nursing Students in the Context of Clinical Education: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Resilience aids nursing students in dealing with adversities during their nursing education. This study examined the relationship between nursing students’ resilience and relevant variables in the context of clinical education. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to collect data from 319 undergraduate nursing students in Northeast Thailand. The Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Learning Experience Scale or the Personal Responsibility Orientation to Self-Direction in Learning Scale, and the Stressors in Nursing Students scale were administered. A multiple regression analysis was performed for factors presumed to be associated with resilience. Results reported that Thai nursing students’ average resilience score was 71.79 ± 16.33. Multiple regression analysis indicated factors associated with resilience, in which social support (β = 0.354, p < 0.001, 95%CI: 0.240 to 0.469) and self-directed learning (β = 0.787, p < 0.001, 95%CI: 0.606 to 0.968) showed a positive association, while stress (β = −0.083, p = 0.025, 95%CI: −0.083 to −0.006) had a negative association. The final model accounted for 43.4% of the variance in the resilience score. In conclusion, self-directed learning, social support, and perceived stress among nursing students during clinical education are associated with their resilience.

Experiences of Nursing Students Regarding Challenges and Support for Resilience during Clinical Education: A Qualitative Study

“…This holistic approach to resilience not only prepares nursing students to handle instant challenges but also fosters long-term professional growth and satisfaction. Ultimately, nurturing resilience through positive transformation ensures the development of a capable and compassionate nursing workforce ready to deliver high-quality patient care [ 8 , 16 ].…”

“…The challenges encountered during clinical practice serve as catalysts for honing critical thinking skills, decision-making abilities, and emotional resilience, cultivating adaptability, and fostering a sense of professional competence [ 15 ]. However, adequate support is equally indispensable for developing resilience [ 16 ]. A supportive learning environment characterized by effective supervision, constructive feedback, and a culture of collaboration strengthens coping mechanisms, enhances learning experiences, and contributes to the development of resilient and proficient practitioners [ 17 , 18 , 19 ].…”

“…Discovering the complex tapestry of nursing students’ encounters and their resilience during clinical practice becomes a scholarly quest and a pragmatic necessity. This comprehension is vital for optimizing educational strategies, mentorship programs, and support mechanisms to enhance nursing students’ resilience during clinical practice [ 8 , 16 ]. Exploring resilience in this context enables the cultivation of an educational environment that not only equips nursing students with the requisite clinical skills but also supports their capacity to navigate the complexity of challenges characterizing their initial entry into the nursing profession.…”