An analysis of bachelor of science nursing students’ attitudes on nursing profession at the end of their basic training: case of public universities, Kenyan.

Abstract

Background information: Attitudes are learned predispositions to respond in a consistently favorable or unfavorable manner with respect to a given object. Thus they cannot be observed directly. Their dimension on a particular aspect determines the end result of that activity. Nurses are responsible for caring for patients and are directly involved in decisions regarding a patient’s care. Nurse’s attitudes are also influential on other health care providers. Today’s nursing students and future nurses make up the backbone of the health care forces in every country and a positive attitude is essential in provision of health care services. Methodology and objective This study investigated the attitude of BScN as they finish their training. Study subjects involved 46 final year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) students, randomly selected from purposefully selected Kenyan public universities which included, Kenyatta University, Moi University and University of Nairobi. Data was collected using self administered questionnaire and attitude scales. Statistical package of social studies version 17 was used for data analysis. Results and discussions: Most respondents had a positive attitude toward the nursing profession because their main reason for joining nurse training was to help and care for the sick (70%). This was supported by the fact that 45.7 % of them viewed nursing as a noble profession. However, 52.2% of the respondents had not made a definite choice to remain in the nursing profession. This was mainly associated to lack of recognition for the work performed by nurses and poor financial motivation. Conclusions and recommendations: Majority of the nursing students have a positive attitude toward the nursing profession but certain aspects in this noble profession tend to diminish the proportion of those who would like to take it up as a lifelong career. Therefore, effort to motivate nurses financially, improve the working schedules and recognize the work done by the nurses should be encouraged in order to increase the number of the students who would prefer to remain in the nursing profession in future.