Professional paper
Identity of the Nursing Profession: A Review
Gordana Jurić
orcid.org/0009-0000-2236-0371
; The Zagreb Clinical Hospital Center Zagreb, Croatia
Ivica Matić
orcid.org/0000-0003-4334-1158
; University Department of Nursing Catholic University of Croatia Zagreb, Croatia
*
Damir Važanić
orcid.org/0000-0003-2003-9909
; The Croatian Institute of Emergency Medicine Zagreb, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Identity, including professional identity, is a dynamic process shaped by societal engagement and contextual factors. In nursing, the historical, social, cultural and political dimensions mold professional identity, with recent advancements emphasizing autonomy and collaboration. However, there still remains a gap in our understanding of how evolving roles impact nursing professionals’ identity and healthcare outcomes. Professional socialization is crucial for nursing professionals, extending beyond technical skills to include soft skills, ethics and responsibilities. This lifelong process, infl uenced by education, mentorship and societal expectations, defi nes nursing’s professional identity. Ethical standards and values are foundational, shaping interactions with patients and colleagues. Policy implementation prompts role shifts, refl ecting changing healthcare needs, such as the expansion of nurse practitioner roles. Education, ethical practice and leadership are vital for shaping the future identity of nursing. Nursing’s identity evolves with education, experience, societal needs and policy changes. Nurses are increasingly engaging in leadership and advocacy, impacting patient care and policy development. The future of nursing hinges on its adaptability to healthcare challenges and societal expectations. Scholarly works on professional socialization, nursing identity, policy implementation and the future of nursing provide insights into this evolution.
Keywords
nursing; professional identity; social values
Hrčak ID:
334379
URI
Publication date:
2.6.2024.
Visits: 83 *