THE PROFESSIONAL SELF-CONCEPT OF NURSES: A REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE FROM 1992-2006

Abstract

Objective: This paper will discuss some recent concerns about research in the area of the professional self-concept of nurses, and trace the development of the literature on professional self-concept of nurses over the last 14 years.

Primary argument: Professional self-concept or how nurses feel about themselves as nurses is vital in examining current and future nursing practice and education, as it affects patient care.

Conclusion: The essence of the paper is the identification of three streams of literature: 1) which has ‘emerged from the development of the Professional Self-Concept of Nurses instrument’; 2) literature which fails to consider recent or current research in the area; and 3) ‘well-conducted work in the topic area’. The implications for nurses, educators and students are presented.