Factors Affecting Skill Acquisition during Clinical Learning Among Preservice Registered Nursing Students at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

Clinical learning is integral to nursing education, essential for the competence development required in a three-year diploma program. This research aimed to investigate factors affecting skill acquisition during clinical learning among preservice Registered Nursing students at Levy Mwanawasa Medical University in Lusaka, Zambia. A cross-sectional descriptive design, employing a self-administered adapted questionnaire pretested for reliability in the UK and Swaziland (Cronbach’s alpha: 0.77–0.96, correlation: 0.74) was used. Stratified random sampling based on training level selected 80 participants meeting inclusion criteria through a random sampling method. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression using SPSS version 26, with a 95% confidence interval and 5% significance level. The study identified four predictors significantly correlated with skill acquisition during clinical learning: inadequate supportive learning environment (100%, n=80, p=0.003), inadequate Student-Patients allocation (83.75%, p=0.048), and inadequate Resources (56.25%, p=0.002), and inadequate motivation to learn (51.25%, p=0.037). Incompetence of clinical instructors and mentors (57.5%, p=0.233) and mild Anxiety (85%, p=0.762). Binary Logistic Regression, adjusted for independent variables, indicated that an improved supportive learning environment decreased skill acquisition odds (Odds Ratio=0.049, p=0.025), while increased resource availability raised odds (Odds Ratio=3.338, p=0.01) for students who perceived these variables as inadequate. The omnibus test was significant (chi-square=14.095, p=0.015), accurately classifying 72.5% of cases. Collaboration among educators, clinical staff, and policymakers is crucial for enhancing nursing education quality by addressing factors affecting clinical skills acquisition. Keywords: Anxiety, clinical learning, competence of clinical instructors and mentors, resources, skill acquisition, supportive learning environment.