The Storm Within: Exploring First-Year Nursing Students’ Experiences of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination

Abstract

Although the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is widely used in nursing education as a summative assessment of students’ learning and clinical competence, less attention has been given to students’ experience of the examination process. The aim of this study is to explore first-year nursing students’ experiences with the OSCE. Data were collected through eight focus group interviews with first-year students between March and June 2025 and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The analysis resulted in three main categories: “Before the OSCE – The Calm before the Storm,” “During the OSCE – In the Eye of the Storm,” and “After the OSCE – Emerging from the Storm.” Students described the examination as both empowering and stressful. For many, it validated growth, enhanced confidence, and motivated further learning. For others, it raised concerns about fairness and caused frustration. The OSCE was experienced as a “storm” of emotions that strengthened skills, resilience, and students’ professional identity, while also causing stress and raising feelings of inequity. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for improved student preparation, educators’ feedback, and alignment between academia and clinical practice.