Factors influencing future perceptions of securing decent work among nursing students in South Korea: a cross-sectional descriptive study

Purpose: This study aimed to identify the factors influencing nursing students' future perceptions of securing decent work by focusing on career adaptability, nursing professionalism, and social comparison orientation. Methods: This descriptive correlational study included 169 third- and fourth-year nursing students with clinical experience. Data were collected through an online survey conducted in October 2024 and analyzed using descriptive statistics, the t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis with SPSS version 25.0. Results: Significant positive correlations were found between future perceptions of securing decent work and career adaptability (r = .35, p < .001) and nursing professionalism (r = .51, p < .001). However, social comparison orientation did not show a statistically significant relationship with future perceptions of securing decent work (r = -.09, p = .232). Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that intrinsic motivation, academic satisfaction, perceived economic constraints, and nursing professionalism significantly influenced future perceptions of securing decent work, explaining 45% of the variance. Conclusion: To improve nursing students' perceptions of securing decent work, it is necessary to foster a strong sense of nursing professionalism. Additionally, addressing perceived economic constraints and enhancing academic satisfaction can contribute to better preparedness for entering the professional workforce.