Changing their minds : using clinical experience to 'convert' undergraduate nursing students to psychiatric nursing

The relative lack of interest from undergraduate nursing students in a career in mental health has attracted research interest for some time. A positive clinical experience in the mental health field has been found to result in more favourable attitudes towards both people with a mental illness and psychiatric/ mental health nursing as a career. However, the link between these attitudes and intention to pursue future employment in this field has not been demonstrated. This study adopted a pre and post-test design. Questionnaires were completed by students on their first day of clinical placement (n=802) and again on the last day (n=703). The focus of this paper is on participants’ stated intention to apply for a graduate program and to pursue a career in psychiatric/mental health nursing. These factors are considered in light of perceived preparedness for mental health practice, encouragement to consider a career in this field and the provision of career information. A considerable increase in intention to practice in the field was evident at the post-test stage. The results suggest this may reflect increased preparedness, encouragement and career advice.