Who do you think you are? STUDENT NURSES and PROFESSIONAL IDENTITY

The aim of this study was to examine how the professional identity of the student nurses was formed. The theoretical framework to inform this study was based on the work of Lave & Wenger (1991) and Wenger (1998) who describe... [ view full abstract ]

The aim of this study was to examine how the professional identity of the student nurses was formed. The theoretical framework to inform this study was based on the work of Lave & Wenger (1991) and Wenger (1998) who describe the process of identity formation through the engagement with a community of practice. In order to gain an insight into the real life experience of nursing students, a narrative approach was utilised with a sample of thirty undergraduate student nurses.

Findings from the study
Data from the study suggested that student nurses were exposed to many elements which had an impact on their professional identity. Students were subjected to many positive factors and this encouraged them to continue on their nursing trajectory. However, the student nurses were also exposed to negative factors which also impacted on their identity. The fluidity of the student’s identity was apparent, with identities continually being altered and modified throughout the undergraduate programme. The implications of the findings of the study are discussed in light of nursing practice, education and research.