Abstract:  Objective  To explore the experience of nursing students in PBL history taking learning in clinical settings. Methods  Twelve nursing students who had experienced PBL interviewing learning in clinical settings were interviewed with a semi-structured guide. The data was analyzed using the method of Colaizzi content analysis. Results  Four themes were extracted including stress and challenge，coping strategy，perceived instructors’ support，gain and reflection. Conclusion  PBL history taking learning in clinical settings can contribute to the improvement of nursing students’ knowledge and skills，and promotion of nursing students’ professional identity. Simulation history taking teaching based on standardized patients and medical record are suggested for further teaching reform.

Key words:  Students, Nursing； Problem-based learning； History taking； Qualitative Research