Development and Effects of Assertiveness Training applying Dongsasub Training for Nursing Students in Clinical Practice

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to develop assertiveness training applying Dongsasub training for junior nursing students, and to verify effectiveness of the training on assertiveness behavior, self-esteem, clinical practice stress, and clinical competence. METHODS: The study design was a non-equivalent control group non-synchronized design. Participants were 63 nursing students in clinical training (31 students in the experimental group and 32 students in the control group). The assertiveness training applying Dongsasub training consisted of four sessions. Outcome variables included assertiveness behavior, self-esteem, clinical practice stress, and clinical competence. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Fisher's exact test and independent samples t-test with SPSS/WIN 21.0. RESULTS: Scores of assertiveness behavior (t=-2.49, p=.015), self-esteem (t=-4.80, p<.001) and clinical competence (t=-2.33, p=.023) were significantly higher and clinical practice stress (t=4.22, p<.001) was significantly lower in the experimental group compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Results indicate that the assertiveness training applying Dongsasub training can be used as a nursing intervention to lower clinical practice stress and improve the clinical competence of nursing students.