Analysis of the Reasons for the Decreased Interest of Prospective Students in the Nursing Profession

Background According to Eurostat, the ratio of nurses to the population in Bulgaria is the lowest in the European Union, with a third of working nurses being over 65 years of age. Aim This study aimed to identify the attitudes of high school graduates regarding pursuing a baccalaureate degree in nursing, as well as the attitudes of nurses already in the workforce toward their profession. Methods In connection with the critical minimum of graduate nurses and the lack of interest among young people in studying the nursing profession, an anonymous survey was conducted on the reasons for the “outflow” from the profession in the city of Ruse, Bulgaria. This anonymous questionnaire survey was conducted among 510 students in the final year of secondary education, as well as 112 practicing nurses. The study used descriptive statistics and frequency distribution. An analysis of the reasons for the decreased interest in the nursing profession in the city of Ruse was carried out. Results There was significant dissatisfaction with the profession, as more than 50% of the nurses rated it negatively and stated that they would not recommend it to their children/relatives. From the survey of 11th and 12th grade students, 93.5% (n 477) responded that they had no interest in the specialty. Conclusion Of the reasons cited by both groups of respondents, low pay and nurses not being respected and recognized as professionals by society and doctors stood out.