Exploring the Perception of Nursing Undergraduates in Chronic wound care Management of Sri Lanka, qualitative study

Abstract Background Wounds are a type of challenging clinical problem. Chronic wounds are classified as wounds that have not progressed through the normal process of healing. As nursing undergraduates play a pivotal role in facilitating patient facing challenges during chronic wound management; their perception in chronic wound management significantly impact patient outcomes and quality of life, yet gaps in perception of nursing undergraduates in chronic wound care management of Sri Lanka are not well-documented. Objective(s): This study was aimed at exploring perceptions of nursing undergraduates caring for Chronic wounds in Sri Lanka. Methods A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among 13 final year nursing undergraduates from 2 government universities in western province and southern province in Sri Lanka. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method until theoretical data saturation was achieved. Data was collected through a validated semi structured interviewer guide questionnaire, with demographic characteristics, experiences of nursing undergraduates caring for chronic wounds, and practices of nursing undergraduates caring for chronic wounds. Data was analyzed using the thematic analysis by identifying patterns and themes related to the perceptions of final-year nursing students on chronic wound care management. Results Interviews were performed with 13 final year nursing undergraduates from 2 government universities in western province and southern province in Sri Lanka between November 2024 to January 2025. The main themes that emerged were initial exposure and emotional reactions to chronic wound care, challenges in chronic wound management, evolution of skills and knowledge in wound care practice, positive outcomes and factors contributing to success, preparedness and confidence in chronic wound care, emotional and mental challenges in caregiving, practices and procedures in chronic wound care, assessment and use of tools in wound care, communication and health education with patients, importance of teamwork and multidisciplinary collaboration. Conclusions The multifaceted experiences of final year nursing undergraduates involved in chronic wound care management. Emotional and sensory challenges such as fear, anxiety and discomfort during early exposure and progress toward growing confidence and skill acquisition. Resource limitations and patient non-compliance, participants demonstrate adaptability and resilience, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical realities. Emotional strain from witnessing patient suffering is profound, requiring both empathy and professionalism. Effective wound care was shown to rely heavily on multidisciplinary collaboration, patient education, and adherence to infection control protocols.