Title: Reasonable adjustments for student nurses in clinical placement in the United Kingdom: The perspectives of the associated community of practice on current criteria and procedures
Abstract:
Background: In the United Kingdom, pre-registration nursing students include those with a disability or impairment who can require extra learning support to maximise their achievement of clinical proficiencies. My earlier EdD research suggests a Community of Practice (CoP) related to facilitating these reasonable adjustments in clinical placement. This group of practitioners can optimise the clinical learning environment but are potentially hindered by limited evidence-based knowledge and a lack of national guidance.
Research aim: To confirm the existence of this CoP and investigate the development of these practitioners’ reasonable adjustments capability. In addition, to seek the views from these individuals regarding the efficacy of current related criteria and procedures.
Methodology: Using a broad interpretivist approach, semi-structured interviews elicited the opinions and experiences from 13 study participants, involved with supporting student nurse learning in clinical placement, from varying parts of the United Kingdom. All interview data were transcribed, coded and then thematically analysed in conjunction with the chosen theoretical lenses.
Findings: Three main themes were identified- ‘lack of consistency’, ‘an experiential approach’, and ‘sharing good practice’.
Conclusions: The Thesis findings confirm the emergence of a CoP associated with reasonable adjustments for student nurses in clinical placement, but with traits differing from those of a conventional CoP. A lack of both knowledge and national guidance can hinder the capability development of CoP members and can contribute towards negative attitudes within the CoP regarding the ability of these student nurses. Further research and investigation is recommended to fully understand this unique CoP and promote its existence to the wider nursing body.
