Introduction
The profession of a nurse is dynamic, demands high responsibility, and provides opportunities for career realization in various fields of healthcare, corresponding to the needs of the population for health services. Students' professional choices are shaped during their studies.
Aim
The aim of this research is to study and analyze the factors determining the professional orientation of students majoring in Nursing.
Materials and Methods
A study was conducted through an anonymous survey among Nursing students at the Sliven Affiliate of the Medical University of Varna.
Results
For the majority of respondents (83.5%), Nursing was their first professional choice. Employment opportunities were the main motive in choosing a profession for 37.6% of respondents. Hospital care facilities were the preferred workplace for 54.1% of respondents, while the nature of the work was the leading factor in choosing a workplace for 55.6% of interviewees. Building on existing studies, further education towards a higher education qualification was a priority for 57.1% of the students surveyed.
Conclusion
Motivation for choosing a profession and professional orientation during the education of Nursing students is important both for the students themselves and for the healthcare system at large. Hospital care facilities are the most attractive for professional realization, with the nature of the work being the primary factor for professional orientation of future nurses. It is encouraging that a large number of students express a desire to continue their studies and pursue a higher educational degree after obtaining their Bachelor’s degree.
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