Background Factors Related to the Professional Identity of Public Health Nurses Working in Small and Medium Municipalities

Abstract

Objectives: This study examines the background factors related to the professional identity of municipal public health nurses working in small and medium municipalities.

Methods: A random sample of full-time public health nurses working in municipalities with populations of less than 100,000 were selected and questionnaire survey was conducted. Professional identity was clarified using Professional Identity Scale for Public Health Nurses (PISP). We conducted a survey on their basic attributes, professional experience, and the municipalities they serve. Multiple regression analysis was conducted using the background factors considered relevant to the PISP as independent variables and the scores on each subscale of the PISP as dependent variables.

Results: There were 152 valid responses. Cooperating and collaborating with other public health nurses was significantly associated with total PISP scores and all five subscales. In addition, being recognized by residents as a public health nurse outside of work and the presence of administrative public health nurse role models had a significant impact on the professional identity.

Discussion: To promote their professional identity, it is necessary to create an environment through support for human resource development and networking among public health nurses. Furthermore, in small and medium municipalities, where nurses often live in the communities they serve, being recognized by residents as a public health nurse and leveraging personal life experiences in public health nursing practices significantly enhances the development of their professional identity.