The impact of clinical experiences during preregistration diploma in nursing courses on initial career choice

AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of clinical learning experiences during the Pre-registration Diploma in Nursing (Adult) course on immediate career choice for qualifying nurses. BACKGROUND: Changes in nurse education has reduced the exposure of students to some client groups, particularly in critical care areas. In recent years trusts are experiencing difficulties in recruiting 'D' grade staff nurses to theatres and critical care units which may be a direct consequence of this change. METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to 47 pre-registration adult branch students, followed by two focus group discussions using a sample of the same students. FINDINGS: Students appeared to use preconceived images and expectations about nursing which they relied on for job selection, unless changed by personal experience during their course. These students held generally negative images about theatre and critical care nursing, and as they had little experience to test these images during their training, the negative view remained dominant when choosing a job. CONCLUSION: A model describing these influencing factors on career decision making was developed. The discussion outlines some possible management solutions to address the problem of recruitment.