"The Clinical Learning Environment as a Bridge to Excellence: Exploring the Mediating Role of Clinical Learning Environment in the Relationship Between Mentorship and Student Competence in Obstetric and Gynecological Nursing – A Comprehensive Review"

Abstract: The development of competent nursing professionals is a fundamental objective of nursing education, particularly in specialized fields such as Obstetric and Gynecological (OBG) Nursing. Clinical competence among nursing students is influenced by numerous educational factors, among which mentorship and the clinical learning environment play significant roles. Mentorship provides professional guidance, emotional support, and practical knowledge transfer, while the clinical learning environment offers opportunities for experiential learning and skill acquisition. Recent evidence suggests that the clinical learning environment may function as a mediator in the relationship between mentorship and student competence. This review explores the interconnected relationships among mentorship, clinical learning environment, and student competence in OBG nursing. The article examines theoretical foundations, components of effective mentorship, characteristics of supportive clinical learning environments, mechanisms of mediation, challenges, and implications for nursing education and practice. Findings indicate that mentorship alone may not directly enhance competence unless supported by a positive clinical learning environment that facilitates learning, professional socialization, and confidence-building. Strengthening mentorship programs and improving clinical learning environments can significantly contribute to the development of competent OBG nursing graduates capable of delivering safe and evidence-based maternal healthcare.