DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Part-time employment among undergraduate nursing students is a growing trend due to financial and personal needs. While employment may provide life skills and financial support, it can potentially interfere with academic and clinical learning especially the development of essential clinical skills. Aim: The study aimed to determine the association between part-time employment and clinical skill development among undergraduate nursing students in Swat, Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in various nursing colleges in Swat. A total of 260 students were selected from a population of 700 using proportionate stratified random sampling. The sample size was calculated using the Raosoft calculator. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire comprising demographic data, employment status, and a clinical skill self-assessment tool. The data collection spanned four weeks, and analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27. Chi-square tests were used to assess associations, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among the respondents, 44.6% were employed part-time, and 55.4% were not. A significant association was found between employment status and self-reported clinical skills (χ² = 18.92, p < 0.001). Students not engaged in part-time work reported higher levels of clinical competence (40.3%) compared to those who were employed (15.5%). Conclusion: The study found that part-time employment may hinder the clinical skill development of undergraduate nursing students. Nursing institutions should provide academic support and counseling to help students balance employment and learning effectively.