Do I want to be a nurse? What influences students to undertake a BSc in nursing programme: a preliminary study

Abstract

This preliminary study aimed to examine key aspects of the factors influencing students to undertake a career in nursing and to also examine attitudes that affected their decision to apply to study for a degree in nursing. The sample in this study comprised the total population (n = 78) of all students who had registered to commence a Degree in Nursing at one third-level college in the Republic of Ireland. The method adopted was a survey approach which employed the use of standardised questionnaires comprising both open and closed questioning styles. Raw statistical data were analysed using SPSS for Windows while the qualitative data arising from the open-ended questions were manually analysed for themes. The data obtained identified that the processes used in recruitment campaigns examined in this study were well utilised and valued by respondents. The main reasons cited for applying for a career in nursing included wanting to help and care for people. The findings of this study identified that there is a need for management to exploit incentives such as financial and job security, the opportunity to help others and travel opportunities in any future recruitment processes.