The infection control education needs of nursing students: an interview study with students and mentors

Aim: To identify and explore the infection prevention and control education needs of nursing students as perceived by students and mentors.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 31 nursing students within one large university and 32 nurse mentors in one large NHS Trust. Interview transcripts were analysed using framework analysis.

Results: There were perceived deficits in both levels of knowledge and clinical skills but the emphasis placed on these differed between nursing students and nurse mentors. The use of small group and interactive methods for teaching and learning was preferred, in particular to encourage less confident students to participate more. Assessments in practice placements of specific skills were identified as a good teaching and learning tool by both students and mentors. Infection prevention and control education was considered to be a joint responsibility between the university and Trust, though there was acknowledgement that this joint working was not always evident. Clinical credibility was considered particularly important by mentors in those who teach students.

Conclusion: There may be deficits in the education provided to nursing students in this area. Teaching and learning preferences and strategies for improving some areas of teaching and learning have been identified and several areas for future research have been suggested.