Background and Aim
A strong Professional Identity of nurses enhances confidence, accountability, job satisfaction and quality patient care, whereas a weak identity may contribute to role confusion, burnout, and workforce attrition. Despite its importance, limited research has explored the process of Professional Identity Formation among practicing nurses in the Indian healthcare context. The study aimed to explore the process of Professional Identity Formation of nursing practitioners in South Gujarat, India.
Methods
Fifteen nursing practitioners from government and private hospitals selected through purposive sampling were interviewed either face-to-face or online via Zoom meetings, lasting about 30 to 40 minutes, with audio-video recording. Data collection continued until saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-steps thematic analysis approach. A reflexive diary was maintained throughout the study to enhance credibility, dependability, and confirmability.
Findings
Reflexive thematic analysis identified eleven themes describing Professional Identity Formation as a progressive process. The findings showed that nurses evolved from a limited, task-oriented perception of their role to a patient-centered, ethical, competent, resilient, and leadership-oriented professional identity.
Conclusion
Professional Identity Formation among nursing practitioners of South Gujarat is a dynamic and continuous process influenced by personal, professional, and organizational factors. Clinical experience, mentorship, teamwork, and continuous learning were identified as important factors influencing this process, whereas staff shortages, heavy workload, limited resources, and workplace stress emerged as major challenges. Strengthening mentorship, leadership development, reflective practice, and supportive work environments may enhance professional identity, improve nursing practice, and promote high-quality patient care.