Philippine E-Journals

A Phenomenological Exploration of the Experience of Handling Childbirth by Level 2 Nursing Students

Josefina E. Florendo

Discipline: Education, Health, Nursing

 

Abstract:

This study explored the lived experience of handling childbirth for the first time by eight Level 2 nursing students. It described the thoughts and feelings they had in response to the demands of the given situation and the factors that contributed to their coping. The experiences of nursing students in the clinical area provide valuable insights on the clinical component of nursing education particularly of second year students. The results showed feelings ranging from a high of excitement and happiness to a low of anxiety. Caring and compassion also pervaded the experience. Their thoughts converged on uncertainty of personal competence and personalization of the experience. Coping was made possible by several intrinsic and extrinsic factors. These included cognitive and psychomotor preparation, self-determination and prayers together with the support and encouragement from their group mates, the clinical instructor and staff. The study found the experience of handling childbirth for the first time to be a fusion of thoughts and feelings. Both intrinsic and extrinsic factors facilitated coping with the demands of the situation.