Abstract
The aim of this integrative review was to identify and synthesize current evidence of factors that influence the professional identity development of nursing students in nursing educational programs. Cinahl (EBSCO), Medline, ERIC, Embase, and PsycINFO were searched. Three different appraisal tools and the PRISMA checklist were used. The data from both quantitative and qualitative studies (19 primary studies) were analyzed by applying qualitative content analysis. The analysis revealed two main themes: a caring practice–academic partnership and support in the learning environment. The following seven sub-categories were identified: clinical supervisors, ethical competence, preparation, self-confidence, predictability and safety, structure and cooperation, reflective space and safety. Our findings indicate that clinical supervisors play a central role as role models for nursing students. The main themes with sub-themes are critical in the professional identity development of nursing students in nursing educational programs.
Highlights
Clinical judgement is a key aspect of professional nursing practice.[1,2] Nursing students learn clinical judgement through self-reflection and critical thinking in nursing practice.[2,3] The concept of ‘clinical judgement’ is about how to understand and consider the patient’s needs, how to read the patient, how to think critically about one’s performance and reflection in and on situations.[2,4] To meet these requirements, it is essential to consider students’ requirements
This study has identified what it means to support students in the learning environment and the content of a caring practice–academic partnership
Our findings show that students construct an identity for themselves as nurses, gain confidence, which is confirmed in practice, and assimilate ways of learning nursing, which influence one another
Summary
Clinical judgement is a key aspect of professional nursing practice.[1,2] Nursing students learn clinical judgement through self-reflection and critical thinking in nursing practice.[2,3] The concept of ‘clinical judgement’ is about how to understand and consider the patient’s needs, how to read the patient, how to think critically about one’s performance and reflection in and on situations.[2,4] To meet these requirements, it is essential to consider students’ requirements. Professional practice experience and having good role models are identified as key factors for students’ professional identity development.[5,6] Students must feel secure in their surroundings, including having people around them to trust. The development of professional identity in nursing students is a prerequisite to the development of professional nursing competence.[7] Both clinical-practice supervisors and academic staff are important role models in nursing students’ learning environment on campus and in clinical practice.[8]
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