Understanding the current situation of challenging clinical interactions for medical radiation undergraduates: An integrative literature review

Objectives

The objectives of this review were to identify the causes, types, and effects of clinical interactions that medical radiation students (MRS) consider as challenging and assess available support and coping strategies during these challenging interactions. The overarching aim is to understand the current situation of challenging clinical interactions (CCIs) for MRS during clinical placement (CP).

Key findings

A comprehensive literature search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Ovid Medline, CINAHL, ERIC, OpenDissertation, and ProQuest Digital databases for studies published from 2005 to 2024 found 133 studies, with 11 meeting the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies (n = 8) recruited medical imaging students with no study found for nuclear medicine undergraduates. The main cause of CCIs identified thematically was inadequate support and preparation, while three themes were identified for the types of CCIs: students’ self-perceived challenges, clinical scenarios and situations, and unacceptable behaviours. Similarly, three themes were identified regarding the effects of CCIs: attitudinal changes, long-lasting effects, and professional identity development. The identified coping and support strategies were support from supervisors, educators, and students.

Conclusion

Compared to nursing and medicine, the issue of CCIs has received little research interest in medical radiation education. This could result in increased attrition, while its potential to impede students’ professional capability development cannot be underestimated. These CCIs and their effects need to be studied thoroughly with all stakeholders.

Implication for practice

To enable MRS to achieve their clinical learning objectives, a major goal in the future will be to assess the effectiveness of the support and coping strategies available to all MRS during CCIs and to ensure the development of effective support strategies.