The meaning of professionalism of undergraduate nursing students : a phenomenological inquiry

Material Information

Title:
The meaning of professionalism of undergraduate nursing students : a phenomenological inquiry
Series Title:
Barry University Dissertations -- College of Nursing and Health Sciences
Creator:
Colvin, Mary Katherine
Place of Publication:
Miami, Fla.
Publisher:
Barry University
Publication Date:
Language:
English
Physical Description:
xii, 146 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm

Thesis/Dissertation Information

Degree Disciplines:
Nursing

Subjects

Subjects / Keywords:
Nursing -- Study and teaching -- United States ( lcsh )
Nursing students -- United States ( lcsh )
Nursing ethics ( lcsh )
Nursing -- Practice ( lcsh )
Genre:
Academic theses ( lcsh )

Notes

Abstract:
Background: Evidence suggests that professionalism is becoming problematic in programs of nursing across the country. Behaviors associated with this problem range from coming late to class, verbal insults, abuse and intimidation, physical and emotional harassment, cheating and other forms of dishonesty in the class and clinical settings. These actions are in opposition to the characteristics of a professional nurse as described in the Code of Ethics. Civility, or acting with respect and compassion for. The problem in this study was a concern for civil behavior of students as it impacts professionalism. Purpose: to explore the meaning of professionalism in the lived experience of baccalaureate nursing students Philosophical Underpinnings: van Manen Phenomenology Method: A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was used to explore the meaning of professionalism in the life world of 12 baccalaureate nursing students. van Manen’s methodological structure for human science and writing guided the description and interpretation of findings. Results: The meaning of professionalism was revealed through the themes of image, attitude and integrity. These themes illuminated the essences of professionalism as a way of being in time. Themes and essences were conceptualized using Carper’s (1978) and White’s (1995) ways of knowing in nursing. Further insights were drawn from literature in the areas of generational theory, the sociopolitical context of professionalism, student attitudes, and issues of integrity. Implications: Future directions for addressing civility as one dimension of professionalism are discussed with an emphasis on understanding the unique needs of young adults as the future leaders in the profession of nursing.
Thesis:
Thesis (Ph.D.)--Barry University, 2009.
Bibliography:
Includes bibliographical references (leaves 125-133).

Record Information

Source Institution:
Barry University
Holding Location:
Barry University Archives and Special Collections
Rights Management:
Copyright Mary Katherine Colvin. Permission granted to Barry University to digitize, archive and distribute this item for non-profit research and educational purposes. Any reuse of this item in excess of fair use or other copyright exemptions requires permission of the copyright holder.
Resource Identifier:
RT81.U6 C65 2009_ColvinMaryKatherine ( BU-Local )
Classification:
RT81.U6 C65 2009 ( lcc )

BUDC Membership

Aggregations:
Barry University
Theses and Dissertations