The perception of graduating nursing students to the nursing shortage in Finland: An Interview Study

Abstract

Nursing is a highly desirable occupation that involves providing care in different healthcare environments, resolving inequalities in health outcomes, and enhancing the overall health of communities. Nevertheless, the shortage of nurses presents a substantial obstacle, impeding the delivery of top-notch healthcare services and the overall welfare of the worldwide population.

This study aims to explore how graduating nursing students perceive the nursing shortage and its effect on their future careers. The researcher employed a qualitative methodology, utilizing a semi-structured interview to gather the students' perspectives. Purposive sampling was used to choose six (6) graduating nursing students. The data were evaluated using thematic content analysis.

The researcher in this study identified five distinct themes: Causes of Nursing Shortage, Feeling about Entering Nursing Profession during the Nursing Shortage, Effect on the Quality of Patient Care during the Nursing Shortage, Career Expectation, and, Strategies or Initiative which Help to Alleviate Nursing Shortage.

The shortage of nurses is a substantial issue that directly impacts the perceptions of graduating nursing students. However, students are optimistic about their chosen profession. To address the shortage of nurses, increased financial resources, policies, incentives, improved work environments, and targeted strategies are needed from nursing schools, governments, and healthcare organizations.