Perceived Competence in the Face of Death before and after Nursing Studies: An Intrasubject Longitudinal Study

Abstract

Perceived competence is a subject’s perception of being able to interact effectively with the environment. Perceived Competence in the face of death in Nursing degree programs in which the presence of the subject of death and bereavement is key becomes more topical and relevant. The objective of this study is to determine whether this competence is improved through Nursing Studies. This study was designed as paired repeated intrasubject measures, initial measurement at the beginning of the first year and second measurement in the fourth year of the Nursing degree. One hundred and seventeen nursing students were assessed. Significant improvement is evidenced in three of the four dimensions of Perceived Competence in the face of death (Accompaniment and Communication: 25.70/29.34; Self-Confidence: 9.64/12.78; Management of Self-Fear: 13.18/14.66). These results show notable differences with their cross-sectional predecessors, suggesting the need for further studies in this field to consolidate a still developing body of knowledge.