Talking realistically about nursing: a thematic analysis of nursing course selection interview discourse

This study examines the dialogue within selection interviews for places on a graduate nursing programme. The analysis focuses upon the way in which a 'realistic' knowledge of nursing is tested for, and demonstrated through, particular discursive themes. These themes reflect a wider social acceptance of accountable rational decision-making. It is argued that applicants who are able to draw upon the interpretative resources necessary to justify their nursing course application in these terms are more likely to be evaluated positively.