title: Experiences of health science students during clinical placements at the University of Zimbabwe.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Clinical placement is an essential component of training in health sciences because it is where theory and practice interface.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To explore experiences of health sciences students during clinical placement in terms of supervision, challenges and coping strategies.
  
  
  METHODS
  It was a cross sectional survey.
  
  
  METHODS
  University ofZimbabwe, College of Health Sciences.
  
  
  METHODS
  179 multidisciplinary health science students.
  
  
  METHODS
  A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire. Ethical clearance was obtained. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
  
  
  METHODS
  These were perceptions of students with regard to supervision, challenges faced during clinical placement and coping strategies used.
  
  
  RESULTS
  179 participants responded to the questionnaires. Participants enjoyed linking theory to practice. Perceptions on supervision were both positive and negative. Inadequate supervision and inappropriate behaviours by supervisors were some of the challenges faced. Almost 89% used stress-relieving strategies such as focusing on why they were doing the clinical placement and the importance of successful completion. Ninety-one per cent had never used cannabis/mbanje but 41% had engaged in sexual activity to cope with challenges.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This study found that the perceptions of health sciences students about supervision clinical placement, challenges faced and the coping strategies are almost the same as those found elsewhere. It is therefore important to plan clinical placement with the involvement of clinical educators.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Supervisors' workshops should be held to create a forum to discuss clinical placement issues. Follow-up of students by academics is recommended. Students should be empowered to cope with challenges.
authors: F
authors: F
authors: Kaseke
authors: M
authors: M
authors: Mutsambi
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D002982:Clinical Clerkship / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006281:Health Occupations / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013336:Students, Health Occupations / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D015030:Zimbabwe