Desirable Characteristics of Nursing Graduates for Private Health Service Systems

Abstract

The ongoing shortage of nurses in the public sector has led clients to increasingly seek private sector services. This qualitative study aimed to explore the desired competencies of nursing graduates working in the private healthcare settings. The participants were selected using purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data were collected by focus group discussions and in-depth interviews using semi-structured interview guides. The study involved three groups of participants, including 11 head nurses, 11 practicing nurses, and 10 interdisciplinary healthcare professionals. Additionally, individual interviews were conducted with 2 hospital executives, 7 nursing administrators, and 9 patients receiving care in the private healthcare settings. The findings identified three core competencies expected of nursing graduates in private healthcare institutions: Hard Skills: These encompassed six key domains: (1) foreign language proficiency, (2) digital literacy in computers, technology, and data management, (3) effective communication using diverse and modern tools, (4) knowledge of general and professional legal frameworks, (5) entrepreneurial capabilities, and (6) leadership skills. Soft Skills: Eight critical attributes were identified: (1) multicultural communication, (2) teamwork, (3) integrity and accountability, (4) adaptability and creativity, (5) problem-solving abilities, (6) emotional intelligence, 7) professional demeanor with ethical and moral principles, and (8) a commitment to lifelong learning. Professional Skills: This category included (1) proficiency in fundamental nursing practices and (2) expertise in specialized nursing practices aligned with specific areas of competency. The results of this study point out that nursing education institutions that have the goal of producing nurses to work in private healthcare facilities should develop nursing graduates to meet these desired characteristics.