Background and Aim
Professional identity formation is increasingly recognized as an important component of
nursing education and professional practice. Although professional identity in nursing has been
widely explored in international literature, and emerging Indian literature has begun to
recognize the significance of professional identity formation, there is insufficient context-
specific evidence regarding the factors influencing professional identity formation among
nurses in South Gujarat. Present study aimed to explore the factors influencing professional
identity formation among nursing practitioners at South Gujarat, India.
Methods and Materials
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’ssix-steps thematic analysis approach. A reflexive diary was maintained throughout the study to
enhance credibility, dependability, and confirmability.
Results
Reflexive thematic analysis identified seven themes describing factors influencing on
Professional Identity Formation of nursing practitioners. The findings showed that professional
identity formation is a dynamic, continuous, and multifactorial process influenced by patient-
centred care, clinical exposure and experiential learning, professional confidence and
competence, workplace support, occupational and emotional challenges, societal recognition,
and lifelong learning and career aspirations.
Conclusion
Professional identity formation among nursing practitioners is an ongoing developmental
journey rather than a one-time outcome of nursing education. Nurses become and continue to
develop as professionals through caring relationships, clinical experiences, competence, social
interactions, workplace experiences, societal recognition, and future professional aspirations.
Creating supportive clinical and organizational environments that nurture these factors may
help strengthen professional identity, promote professional satisfaction and commitment, and
ultimately contribute to the delivery of safe, ethical, compassionate, and high-quality nursing
care.
Keywords: Nurses; Professional Identity Formation; Nurses; Qualitative Research; Interview
Publication date: 01/11/2026
https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/November/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10671.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.11.10671
