Medical Imaging Student Perspectives of Learning in The Clinical Environment: A Focus on Emotional Challenges at Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak (UniKL RCMP)

Abstract

Purpose: The study evaluated the emotional well-being of medical imaging students during clinical placement, their response and preparedness to emotionally challenging situations, and investigated factors contributing to their emotional well-being and compared demographic characteristics on their emotional responses to challenging situations. Methodology: An online survey was conducted on 109 students in the Diploma in Medical Imaging program at Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak, focusing on clinical work experiences, interactions with professionals, and patient presentations that may reduce emotional well-being during clinical placements. Personal reactions and strategies were also collected. Results: Medical imaging students face emotional challenges during clinical placements, with general X-rays being the least challenging. The fast-paced, high-pressure environment in A&E departments can lead to stress, anxiety, and overwhelmed patients. Individual communication styles, clear expectations, and staff support influence professional interactions. Patients with non-accidental injury, domestic violence, mental health, motor vehicle accidents, and paediatric patients have more negative impacts. Students often use task-focused strategies, but peer-to- peer support networks provide emotional validation. Emotional well-being factors include academic gaps, performance pressure, fast-paced environments, patient interactions, geriatric and language barriers, and exclusion. Conclusions: Medical Imaging students face emotional challenges in clinical settings like X- rays, and A&E. Environmental pressures and personal interactions impact their well-being. Effective communication, supportive peers, and educational approaches can mitigate psychological outcomes. Comprehensive intervention plans are needed to equip students with robust psychosocial competencies. Keywords: Medical Imaging, Clinical Placement, Emotional well-being, Clinical Environment, work-integráted learning