Effect of a Brief Mindfulness-Based Training on First Clinical Day Stress in First-Year Nursing Students

Clinical practice is a fundamental component of nursing education; however, it can be a major source of stress, particularly for first-year students. The first clinical day is often associated with high levels of anxiety due to uncertainty, fear of making mistakes, and perceived inadequacy. Mindfulness-based approaches have been shown to enhance coping skills and facilitate adaptation to clinical environments. However, most existing interventions are long-term, and evidence regarding short, pre-clinical interventions is limited. This randomized controlled trial aims to examine the effect of a brief mindfulness-based training administered one day before clinical placement on reducing anticipatory stress and first clinical day stress among first-year nursing students. Participants will be randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. Data will be collected using the Perceived Stress Scale for Nursing Students and the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS). The findings are expected to contribute to evidence-based improvements in pre-clinical preparation in nursing education.