Baccalaureate nursing studies: voyaging towards discovery.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Higher Education Studies
• Professional Development

Background:

• Postregistration nursing programs aim to elevate nurses' qualifications from certificate/diploma to degree level.
• The study investigates the experiences of nurses in Malaysian Borneo undertaking these degree programs.
• The unique geographical and cultural context of Malaysian Borneo presents specific challenges for nursing students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of registered nurses undertaking postregistration degree studies in Malaysian Borneo.
• To identify challenges faced by these students in a unique educational environment.
• To understand the personal and professional outcomes of completing a baccalaureate degree.

Main Methods:

• Preliminary exploratory and descriptive research design.
• Utilized a ship's voyage metaphor to structure the exploration of student experiences.
• Thematic analysis of experiences categorized into 'setting sail,' 'finding one's sea legs,' 'all in the same boat,' and 'discovering the treasure.'

Main Results:

• Completion of a baccalaureate postregistration course was a long-held aspiration for most participants.
• Key challenges included time management, conflicting priorities, and adapting to tertiary education.
• Support systems involving fellow students, faculty, and family were vital for successful course completion.

Conclusions:

• Participants reported significant personal growth, including increased confidence and assertiveness.
• Development of critical thinking and enhanced communication skills were notable outcomes.
• The study highlights a renewed sense of self-worth and professional identity among nurses upon degree completion.