Influencing Factors the Career Preparation Behavior of Nursing Students in the COVID-19 Situation

Objectives This study was conducted to confirm how the attitude and fear of COVID-19 affect the career preparation behavior of nursing students in the pandemic situation. Methods 164 nursing students participated in this study. The data collection period was from January 13 to February 7, 2022. The collected data were analyzed using the SPSS/WIN 25.0 program. For statistical analysis, descriptive statistics, independent t-test, ANOVA, Pearson's Correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were conducted according to the characteristics of the variables. Results First, there was a statistically significant difference in subjectively recognized health status and major satisfaction in the career preparation behavior of nursing students. Second, the degree of attitude of nursing students toward COVID-19 was 4.14, the fear of COVID-19 was 2.48, and the career preparation behavior was 3.18. Third, the career preparation behavior of nursing students showed a statistically significant positive correlation with their attitude toward COVID-19 and fear of COVID-19. Finally, the significant factors affecting the career preparation behavior of nursing students were attitudes toward COVID-19 and fear of COVID-19, and the explanatory power of career preparation behavior was 22.2%. Conclusions Based on the results of this study, it is important to establish a personalized career action plan from new students so that nursing students can perform career-related preparatory actions. If these education are provided, it will help strengthen college students' career preparation behavior.