Background: The importance of clinical placements for nursing students to be able to integrate theory and practice and develop clinical competence are described in literature. Recent research in the Swedish prehospital context has shown that there possibly are differences in the preparations among ambulance nursing students before entering their clinical placements in accordance with studies in other countries. Studies have also highlighted difficulties in creating a good learning environment in the context of prehospital emergency care. The role of the mentor in supporting these students during clinical placements via an individualized mentorship model has proven to be of most importance. At the same time the role of the mentor is described as demanding, undefined and lacking support from both universities and ambulance services. In the Swedish educational system, the voice of the mentor is missing in research in order to develop and enhance the learning environment during clinical placements.

Purpose: To describe mentors ‘experiences of enablers and barriers for supervision during ambulance clinical placements.

Methods: Individual interviews were conducted with 20 mentors from 10 ambulance districts from all parts of Sweden. The interviews were analysed according to qualitative content analysis.

Results/Conclusions: Preliminary findings indicates that the mentors need specific competence, further education and improved support from universities and ambulances services to feel competent and safe. They are forced to adjust their learning strategies to the unique context of prehospital emergency care and are constantly drawn between responsibilities towards the patient and the student. The role and the assignment are unclear and they are in need of support and structure. The competence and attitudes of the team colleague are of high importance for the mentors’ perceived support.