Evaluation of occupational exposure reasons and experiences of nursing students

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the occupational exposure reasons and experiences of nursing students. Material and Method: The qualitative research design was used. The participants were selected using the purposive sampling method. The 20 nursing students included in this study. The data was collected at face-to-face interviews conducted during September 2019 and February 2020. Results: The mean age of nursing students was 21.65±0.91. The majority (85%) of nursing students were women, and 15% were men (n=3). From the interviews, six key themes were identified regarding the nursing students’ experiences of occupational exposure in the last six months: lack of knowledge, inadequate experience, theoretical and practical training loads, inadequate resources, lack of warning and information, and carelessness. Conclusion: The one of the most important reasons for exposure to occupational hazards is lack of knowledge. Nursing Schools should ensure that nursing students are adequately trained in occupational hazards before their clinical placements.