Perceived self-efficacy in physical examination skills, clinical practice experiences, and utilization of findings in care plans among senior nursing students: a cross-sectional study.

backgroundIn nursing education, physical examination skills are a fundamental requirement for clinical practice. Nevertheless, there is a lack of evidence concerning the perceived self-efficacy of senior nursing students in these skills, their use in the clinical environment, and their integration into care plans. The study aimed to determine the perceived self-efficacy of senior nursing students regarding physical examination, their application of physical examination skills in the clinic, and their use of physical examination findings in care plans.

methodsThis descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during the 2023-2024 academic year at a university in Western Turkey. A convenience sampling method was employed, and 107 students (71%) who met the inclusion criteria, completed all forms, and voluntarily agreed to participate were included in the study. Data were collected using the Student Identification Form, Physical Examination Perceived Self-Efficacy Instrument for Undergraduate Nursing Students, and student care plans.

resultsIn this study, the total score of nursing students' perceived self-efficacy in physical examination was 2.18 ± 0.41 ('not very sure'). The Cardio sub-dimension of physical examination skills (2.50 ± 0.54) had the highest mean sub-dimension score, while the eye sub-dimension (1.75 ± 0.54) had the lowest mean sub-dimension score. More than half of the students were found to have no confidence in their ability to perform 14 physical examination skills and never practiced the skills in the clinic. It was determined that the students used only 20 physical examination skills in the data collection phase of the care plans, and only 6 of these skills were practiced by more than half of the students.

conclusionsThis study reveals a significant gap in the self-efficacy and practical skills of nursing students related to physical examination. Based on these findings, the nursing curriculum should include more hands-on training and clinical practice should provide students with more opportunities to apply physical examination skills. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.