Factors that influence students in choosing rural nursing practice: a pilot study.
BACKGROUND
Nursing shortages continue globally and are especially critical in rural and remote communities. Attracting nurses to work in less populated regions presents challenges that differ from those in urban areas.


METHODS
This pilot study focused on self-identified factors of nursing students who expressed an interest in rural practice post-graduation. The sample included students from the USA and Canada, who were enrolled in graduate and under graduate programs of nursing, and were attending an international rural nursing conference.


RESULTS
Findings from the pencil and paper short answer survey found those who have life experiences and connections in small communities are more likely to choose this setting. Post-graduation employment preference was reinforced by ongoing exposure to rural theory and practice settings in their programs of study. Nursing scholars may find this study useful to further examine students' employment preferences, and to develop targeted strategies to better prepare those having an interest in rural practice.


CONCLUSIONS
Evidence based findings are critically needed to recruit and retain nurses to address critical nursing shortages in rural regions in North America and globally.
Bushy
Angeline
A
School of Nursing, University of Central Florida, USA. abushy@pegasus.cc.ucf.edu
Leipert
Beverly D
BD
D002170:Canada; D002321:Career Choice; D004506:Education, Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008507:Medically Underserved Area; D009042:Motivation; D011365:Professional Practice Location; D019035:Rural Health Services; D013338:Students, Nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D000078329:Workforce