Improving student learning in mental health settings : the views of clinical stakeholders

In this study, individual semi-structured interviews with key nursing staff were undertaken across a metropolitan mental health service in Sydney, Australia to ascertain their views, knowledge and experiences in regard to the development of nursing programmes for nurses new to mental health nursing, trainee enrolled nurse programmes and undergraduate placements. Interview topics were based on information obtained from a survey of nurses participating in these programmes, a review of the literature, consultation with senior nurses and exit interviews. The interviews were analysed for recurring themes to increase understanding of factors that facilitate satisfaction. These findings are valuable for health administrators, nurse educators and clinical support staff and may contribute to the development of ‘better practice’ in the areas of recruitment and retention and nurse education.