The effect of creative drama on nursing image: Randomized controlled study

Abstract

AimThis study aimed to examine the effects of the creative drama method on first-year nursing students’ perceptions of the image of nursing. BackgroundNursing students’ perceptions of professional image can be affected by many processes during their transition to professional life. Therefore, supporting their development of a positive professional image at the beginning of their careers is necessary. DesignThis was a randomized controlled trial with a pre-test/post-test design and a control group. MethodsThe study was carried out at a nursing school located in the Eastern Black Sea region of Türkiye. The sample of this study consisted of 77 participants, with 38 in the experimental group and 39 in the control group. The subjects of professional image and the image of nursing were explained to the control group using presentations and case analysis and to the experimental group using the creative drama method. Research data were collected with the Student Information Form and Nursing Image Scale. ResultsThe post-test scores obtained by the control group after receiving traditional education were higher than the pre-test scores. The post-test scores obtained by the experimental group after receiving education based on creative drama were higher than the pre-test scores. The scores of the experimental group were significantly higher after the educational intervention. ConclusionCreative drama is far more effective in nursing image education for first-year nursing students than presentation and case analysis, which are conventional education methods. Creative drama can be used as an effective method to develop positive perceptions of nursing.