Beyond altruism: Exploring the diverse motivations of undergraduate nursing students

Aim: Grounded in Self-Determination Theory, this qualitative study explores the multifaceted motivations influencing first-year undergraduate nursing students' career choices. It challenges the traditional emphasis on altruism and examines the impact of the evolving healthcare landscape.

Background: The dynamic nature of healthcare, exacerbated by global events such as the COVID-19 restrictions, necessitates a deeper understanding of the diverse factors shaping students' decisions to pursue nursing. This understanding is pivotal for developing effective strategies to attract and retain a resilient nursing workforce equipped to navigate future challenges.

Design: A qualitative research design was employed, using semi-structured interviews for an in-depth exploration of the motivational factors.

Methods: Thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data.

Results: Five key themes emerged, highlighting the diversity of motivations: (a) Migration and Nursing: Pathways to Opportunities, (b) Breaking Down Barriers: Tuition-Free Incentives Expand Nursing Aspirations, (c) Financial Stability and Global Career Opportunities, (d) Expanding Career Horizons: Beyond Traditional Nursing Roles, and (e) Redefining Nursing Through Gender Dynamics.

Conclusions: Undergraduate nursing students' career choices are driven by various factors, including migration aspirations, financial aid and security, global opportunities, and challenging gender stereotypes. These findings underscore the need for governments, policymakers, healthcare, and educational institutions to acknowledge and address these diverse motivations to attract and retain a resilient nursing workforce.