Clinical Reflections of Doctoral Education in Nursing: A Qualitative Study on the Perspectives of Doctoral Students and Graduates

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to examine the reflections of doctoral education in nursing on clinical practice, focusing on the perspectives of doctoral students and graduates. Design: This study was conducted as qualitative research. Methods: The study was conducted in February 2025 with 14 nurses who were either pursuing or had completed doctoral education in nursing and were working as nurses in Türkiye. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using an introductory information form and a semi-structured interview guide. The data were analysed using an inductive content analysis method. Findings: Four main themes were depicted throughout the study: the visibility of doctoral education in clinical practice, the reflection of doctoral education on nursing identity, challenges encountered during the doctoral education process and recommendations to strengthen the reflection of doctoral education in the clinic. Conclusion: The study highlighted the importance of doctoral education, which has positively contributed to the professional development of nurses and nursing care. Implications for Profession and/or Patient Care: Collaboration between clinical administrators and faculty members is needed to support the transfer of the gains achieved by doctoral nursing students and graduates during their doctoral education to clinical practice and to overcome the challenges encountered. Patient or Public Contribution: No Patient or Public Contribution. Reporting Method: The study was reported using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) checklist.