Images of Good Nurses as Perceived by Nursing College Students: A Q-Methodological Approach

Han, Dallong

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to explore subjective perceptions of good nurses' images perceived by nursing students using Q-methodology and to identify characteristics by types and reflect them in nursing education.
METHODS
Between December 21 and November 30, 2017, using Q-methodology, 31 nursing students from two universities sorted and rated 34 Q-statements on a nine-point scale according to the degree of their agreement. A data analysis was conducted using the PC-QUANL program.
RESULTS
The images of good nurses, as perceived by nursing college students, were extracted into three types, each of which had unique characteristics; the cumulative variance was 55%. Three types were identified as "Task-oriented health professional type,""Emotional companion type," and "Flexible mediator type" respectively.
CONCLUSION
This study investigated the significant differences of subjectivity in images of good nurses perceived by nursing college students. The results of this study can be applied to the development and application of a nursing education curriculum that helps nursing college students form positive nursing images and grow into competent nurses.