Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
International Journal of Caring Sciences , cilt.10, sa.3, ss.1676-1684, 2017 (Hakemli Dergi)
Background: Professional self-concept is a strong factor affecting nursing shortage. Although there are studies
on nurses' professional self in the international literature, there is not enough data on this subject in Turkey.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to determine professional self-concept among nurses working in
hospitals and related factors.
Methods: This descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out with 2165 nurses. The data were collected
with the Socio-demographic Questionnaire, Professional Self-Concept Inventory and Self-Esteem Inventory.
Results: The nurses' professional self-development scores were assessed as high. A significant positive
relationship was determined between the nurses' professional self and self-esteem scores. Professional selfconcept was significantly higher in the nurses who were older, more experienced, female and master's degree
graduates than in the nurses who were younger, less experienced, male and high school graduates.
Conclusions: Nurses working in Turkey have a well-developed professional self-concept and high self-esteem.
Nurses' professional self-concept is affected by their personal characteristics and working conditions. In
addition, the level of self-esteem plays a role in the development of professional self as well. This study not only
provides useful information for nurse educators and nurse managers but also offers a data source for future
studies to be conducted on this issue in Turkey.
Key Words; nursing shortage, professional self concept, register nurse, self esteem, Turkey.