Factors influencing professionalism among nurse educators; A feasibility study

The quality of education depends, more than upon any other single factor, upon the quality of their teacher. Although professionalism is an elusive concept, it is defined as the sets of attitudes and behaviors specific to professions. The development of professional attitudes and demonstration of professional behaviors are key factors in the practice of nursing especially in academic. environment Attributes of professionalism include knowledge, spirit of inquiry, accountability, autonomy, advocacy, innovation and visionary, collaboration and collegiality, and ethics.

The aim of the study was to determine the feasibility of the actual study and also to determine sample size.

A cross sectional design supplemented by focus group discussion was employed. Self administered professionalism assessment scale was developed based on RNAO (Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario) guideline whereas FGD guideline was developed based on study construct and literature review. 30 nurse educators were selected using judgemental sampling. Written informed consent was obtained from the study participants and anonymity was assured for all the information provided. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS 17.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for quantitative data. Qualitative data was analyzed using coding technique.

Mean percentage scores for the nursing teachers on the professionalism were 66.20 with the mean ±SD of 67.53±18.26 respectively. Whereas domain wise professionalism was highest among Spirit of inquiry followed by Accountability, Autonomy and Knowledge and it was lowest among domains such as Innovation and Advocacy.. ANOVA and independent t-test analysis revealed no significant association among characteristics of nurse educators, organization they work for with their level of professionalism. Depending on participant's perception and FGD, the major factors that influence professionalism positively were knowledge, peer relationship, interest, professional experience, other professions(medical), student's feedback, mentor, college of final degree attainment and personality(nature of nurse educator) Factors which influence professionalism negatively were lack of line of authority, performance evaluation system, salary (current pay), privatization of nursing institution, behaviour of students, non-teaching faculty, lack of reward/appreciation, biasness, lack of clear job description, level of autonomy, Further Sample size for main study was also determined based on power analysis. All the methodological decisions were evaluated and found to be feasible hence no changes were made in the main study