2026-03-26
Levon Lubbe, Amanda Dungelo, Kimberly J. Caewood, Ntokozo Mopumulo, Nobuhle Nozakuzaku, Tamar Yazbek, Tshepang Mohlahlo, Nthuseni S. Murudi-Manganye
Background: Clinical practice is a highly valued learning opportunity to develop the appropriate techniques as student nurses. However, students are experiencing traumatic events during clinical placements without adequate emotional support. This causes emotional challenges that are difficult to manage. Aim: To explore emotional challenges experienced by student nurses during clinical placements when exposed to traumatic events. Method: This scoping review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Manual for Evidence Synthesis to extract and chart sources. Nineteen articles (2014–2024) were analysed using descriptive analysis, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and thematic analysis. Results: Three themes, namely, psychological resilience, emotional strains and impact on nursing education environment, and coping strategies, emerged from this scoping review. These themes and sub-themes are used to make recommendations. Conclusion: This scoping review highlights that nursing students face significant emotional challenges, including burnout, insecurity and traumatic experiences, which affect their resilience and well-being. The findings emphasise systemic issues within clinical and academic environments, such as workload pressures, limited support and gaps in preparedness, that exacerbate emotional strain. Positive coping strategies, resilience-building interventions and supportive mentorship were linked to professional growth. Contribution: The findings from this scoping review might assist in addressing these challenges through curriculum reform, intentional resilience and coping skills training and structured emotional support systems.
2026-03-20
Editorial Office
This Table of Contents reflects the print compilation of peer-reviewed articles published in the journal. Each article listed was originally published online under the journal’s open access model and remains individually accessible and citable. This compilation has been created solely for print distribution, reference, and archival purposes. No new research content is introduced. The publisher affirms that all articles included in this compilation have undergone the journal’s standard editorial and peer-review processes.
2026-03-17
George Chapweteka, Nixon Chidzere, Thandie Munthali, Patson Kumwenda, Chimwemwe Munthali, Esmie Mkwinda, Geldine Chironda
Background: Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) has gained recognition for its potential to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. However, limited academic research has comprehensively examined the psychological experiences of individuals who have undergone this procedure. Aim: The study aimed to explore the psychological experiences of soldiers who have undergone VMMC at the Engineers Battalion in Kasungu, Malawi. Setting: The study was conducted at the Engineers Battalion in Kasungu, Central Region of Malawi. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological study design was used. A purposive sampling strategy was used to enrol eight participants. A semi-structured interview schedule with probing questions was used to collect data. An interpretive thematic framework approach was used to analyse data. Results: Immediate psychological experiences included heightened anxiety, vulnerability and physical discomfort. Short-term experiences involved challenges adapting to physical restrictions and feelings of self-consciousness. Long-term psychological experiences were characterised by a blend of positive self-perceptions. Conclusion: The study highlights the mental health challenges associated with routine VMMC among an under-researched population in Malawi. Voluntary medical male circumcision significantly affects the psychological well-being of soldiers across various stages of recovery, underscoring the need to integrate psychological counselling and support into military health initiatives. Contribution: Findings from this study will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection between VMMC, psychological well-being and military health policies, ultimately informing the design of tailored interventions to support circumcised soldiers in Malawi and beyond.
2026-02-23
Tumelo Modau, Demitri Constantinou, Ané Orchard
Background: Progressive joint disorders (PJDs) are a leading cause of chronic pain and disability, requiring multidisciplinary management. Community pharmacists are well positioned to support patients through education, medication management and referrals, yet gaps in referral practices and interprofessional collaboration persist. Aim: To assess South African community pharmacists’ referral practices in managing PJDs and their knowledge of other healthcare providers’ roles, with the goal of identifying opportunities to enhance collaboration and inform the development of referral guidelines. Setting: Private community pharmacies across South Africa. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured online questionnaire distributed nationally. Data on demographics, familiarity with PJDs, management practices, referral behaviours and barriers to collaboration were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Of 373 participants, 84.5% were familiar with PJDs, most commonly gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Over 60% did not use formal guidelines for PJD management. There was no significant association between guideline use and familiarity with other providers’ roles ( p = 0.96). Referrals were predominantly to medical doctors with limited engagement with other health professionals. Barriers included a lack of referral protocols and limited knowledge of other providers’ roles. Most pharmacists expressed a willingness to improve care through better collaboration and education. Conclusion: Pharmacists play a pivotal role in PJD management and require better training, awareness and structured referral pathways to enhance multidisciplinary care and optimise patient outcomes. Contribution: This study highlights the need for evidence-based referral guidelines and interprofessional education in pharmacy curricula to strengthen pharmacists’ role in multidisciplinary PJD care.