Stress, stressors and related factors in clinical training of midwifery students in Iran: a cross sectional study

Abstract

Background: Midwifery is an emotionally challenging profession, and academic education of midwifery has its own specific challenges. Midwifery students face with stressful experiences, especially related to instructor and characteristics of clinical environment, which can affect their theoretical and practical abilities. There is insufficient evidence in this field. This study aimed to explore (1) the perceived stress and stressors of midwifery students and (2) the relationships between students' stress and related factors in clinical training. Methods: A cross sectional, descriptive study was conducted at one university in Iran. A sample of 108 students was selected using Krejcie and Morgan table in 2016. Data was collected using Persian version of Cohen's perceived stress scale, Persian questionnaire of sources of stress and demographic form. Data was analyzed using independent t, ANOVA and correlation coefficient test (α<0.05). Results: Participants returned 70 surveys (response rate, 64.8%). Approximately 56 % of the students perceived a high level of stress. The most common dimensions of stressors were "unpleasant emotions" and "humiliating experiences". The highest stressors were included "feeling suffering due to seeing for patients with critical situation", "instructor’s admonition in the presence of clinical staff" and "communication with instructor". The "interest in the field of study" had a negative impact on perception of stressors in dimensions of "clinical practices" and "interpersonal communication". Conclusions: The midwifery students reported their stress in severe level, especially in dimensions of "unpleasant emotions" and "humiliating experiences". The factors associated with the instructors have caused more stress in students. These findings will highlight need for supportive strategies by the clinical instructors. In this regard, the use of experienced instructors, the development of communication skills of the instructors, increasing coping skills of the students and the creation of a supportive environment may be helpful. Keywords: Clinical Training Environment, Clinical Preceptorship, Midwifery Education, Stress, Student, Midwifery

Empowering Midwifery Students: Educational Intervention Based on Group Counseling for Clinical Stress Management

“…Factors like place of residence, student age, and the clinical education environment are identified as indirect influencers of other stress-related factors, particularly personality, skills, and the number of study years. Consequently, it is crucial to pay special attention to these factors in order to exert control over stress as much as possible (27).…”