Factors related to readiness for practice among undergraduate nursing students: A systematic review

Abstract

Aim: This systematic review identifies the factors and effective strategies related to nursing students' readiness for practice.

Method: A search was conducted from 2012 to 2022 in PubMed, CINAHL, SCOPUS, PsycInfo and EMBASE databases, using a combination of predetermined keywords. Four authors made the selection independently and the methodological quality was assessed using the RoBANS, Analytical cross-sectional studies Critical Appraisal Tool and MMAT tools. Information was extracted using a matrix and analyzed through the thematic synthesis approach.

Result: Studies (14,000) were identified from the search and 11 met the predetermined inclusion criteria. The main identified themes were personal characteristics, education-related factors, cognitive factors, psychological characteristics and social factors influencing readiness to practice. Some barriers also affect readiness for practice among undergraduate nursing students.

Conclusion: Multiple personal, educational and community factors interact in diverse ways to influences nursing students readiness to practice.

Registration: The protocol for the conduct of this study was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) with the registration number CRD42020222337.

Keywords: Nursing student; Preparedness; Professional practice; Readiness; Systematic review; Undergraduate.