To explore the perspectives and experiences related to caring for older people during clinical placement among undergraduate nursing students.

A qualitative exploratory study analysing individual interview data.

Department of Nursing, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.

Participants: A purposive sample of 14 undergraduate nursing students.

Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis framework.

Five themes emerged: (1) understanding ageing: The concept of ‘Age’, (2) Complexity of care: navigating challenges, (3) Care provision: rewards, growth and fulfilment, (4) Addressing challenges: barriers to support and (5) Reaching the horizon: enhancing geriatric education. Nursing students encountered both positive and negative experiences related to caring for older people. Positive experiences included increased self-awareness, learning opportunities, skill development and personal satisfaction. Negative experiences involved student-related and patient-related challenges, initial difficulties in providing care and inadequate support and mentoring during clinical placements.

Despite the complexities of caring for older people, nursing students are motivated to learn and provide the necessary care. This study highlights the need for quality care for older people, the importance of early geriatric education and the need for enhancing clinical supervision and mentoring.