Abstract
AIM: The aims of the study were to identify professional values among third- and fourth-year baccalaureate nursing students at private and public universities in Jordan and to investigate the demographic variables correlating with professional values.
BACKGROUND: Educational curricula reinforce professional values among nursing students.
METHOD: A cross-sectional design was used; the questionnaire included a demographic variable survey and the Nurses Professional Values Scale-3.
RESULTS: The mean score for the overall value scale was moderate (3.5, SD = 0.4, range 1-5). The caring subscale was the highest (3.9); the professionalism and the activism subscales had the same mean (3.3). Male students, studying in private universities and employed in health care, scored higher (p = .002, .001, and .01, respectively). Study track and age were insignificantly correlated.
CONCLUSION: The development of professional values is associated positively with practice and employment status; clinical experience improved students' sense of professionalism.