Perspectives of psychiatric clinical officer students and their mentors on the use of portfolios at Butabika national mental hospital.

Abstract

Background Portfolios are essential clinical assessment tools for psychiatric clinical officer (PCO) students, playing a crucial role in documenting learning experiences during clinical placements. However, differing views on their purpose between students and mentors may impact their effectiveness in skill acquisition and professional development. Aim: This study aimed to explore the perspectives of PCO students and their mentors on the use of portfolios at Butabika National Mental Hospital (BNMH) Specific objectives 1.To explore the perspectives of PCO students on the use of portfolios at BNMH. 2.To explore the perspectives of Mentors on the use of portfolios at BNMH. 3.To identify possible recommendations proposed by PCO students and their mentors for enhancing the effective use of portfolios at BNMH. Methodology: A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to collect data from participants who were selected by use of purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data and coding was done by use of R- Software. Results: The results revealed that portfolios contributed to professional development, reflection, confidence-building, exposure to clinical experiences, and public health learning. However, challenges were identified in areas of documentation, supervision, time management, and portfolio integration into the training process. Conclusion: The use of portfolios emphasise the importance of reflective practice and professional growth. Participants recommended the provision of clear guidelines, need for a structured feedback, increased supervisor engagement, integration of technology, and offering incentives to mentors.