Nursing students’ experience of moral distress in clinical settings: A phenomenological study

Key Findings:

• Negative Learning Environments: Students reported that value conflicts, lack of knowledge of ethical standards, and unprofessional behaviors led to negative perceptions of their learning environments. ​

• Internal Disgust: Feelings of guilt and shame arose when students felt powerless to address ethical issues, leading them to avoid confronting problems. ​

• Threats to Professional Identity: Experiences of compromised dignity, inequality, and distrust challenged students’ perceptions of the nursing profession. ​