Croatian Nursing Journal, Vol. 9 No. 1, 2025.
Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.24141/2/9/1/6
Self-Perceived Professional Preparedness of Final-Year Nursing Students for Entering the Profession
Katarina Fofić
; University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Vesna Konjevoda
; University Hospital Sveti Duh, Zagreb, Croatia
*
Marta Čivljak
; Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivica Matić
; Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Introduction. Nursing students’ preparedness for
entering their professional careers is crucial for ensuring
quality healthcare.
Aim. To evaluate the self-perceived preparedness of
final-year nursing students as they transition into
the nursing profession focusing on clinical competencies,
evidence-based practice, administrative skills,
and patient-centered care.
Methods. A cross-sectional observational study was
conducted among 200 final-year nursing students
from the Catholic University of Croatia and the University
of Applied Health Sciences. Data were collected
using the Professional Preparedness of Nursing
Students (PPNS) questionnaire.
Results. Most respondents rated their readiness as
excellent. This perception was more prevalent among
graduate students (54.2%) compared to undergraduate
students (44.4%). Part-time students reported
significantly higher levels of perceived readiness
compared to full-time students (77.94 vs. 71.50).
Conclusion. Final-year nursing students feel adequately
prepared to enter the nursing profession and
commence their professional practice. These findings
highlight the importance of recognizing diverse student
experiences and needs in designing educational
programs to enhance professional competence.
Keywords
nursing students, entering the profession, nursing education
Hrčak ID:
330954
URI
Publication date:
20.5.2025.
Visits: 643 *