Determining the Professional Perceptions of Nursing Students Using the Metaphor Analysis Method

Abstract

In this study, it is aimed to determine the perceptions of first and fourth year nursing students about the nursing profession by using the metaphor analysis method. Qualitative research design was used in this study. The study was conducted in the Nursing Department of a university. The study was concluded with data obtained from 87 nursing students. Purposive sampling method was used in the selection of the sample and this sampling method; The data were analyzed through metaphor analysis. The data were collected between September 15 and September 30, 2022 in the classroom environment with Personal Information Form and Semi-Structured Interview Form. To ensure good quality in presenting the study, the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) was used as a guide. Fifty two first-year nursing students and thirty five fourth-year nursing students participated in the study. Forty six different metaphors related to the "nurse" profession were forming by the first and fourth year nursing students, and these metaphors were classified under two categories as positive and negative according to their common aspects. It was observed that fourth-year nursing students used positive metaphors regarding the concept of nursing more frequently than first-year students. Nurses; in clinical practice, students should use effective communication techniques and have good observation skills in order to positively affect their perceptions of the nursing profession.