The Professional Self-Concept and Problem-Solving Ability in Different Career Stages Among Jordanian Registered Nurses

Background Professional self-concept and problem-solving abilities could differ over career stages, thereby enabling graduate nurses to plan appropriate care.Aim This study aimed to assess professional self-concept and problem-solving abilities over career stages and examine the association between professional self-concept and problem-solving ability among Jordanian registered nurses (RNs).Methods A descriptive cross-sectional correlational design was performed. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect demographic data, the Nurses Self-Concept Questionnaire (NSCQ), and the Problem-Solving Inventory (PSI).Results Female was 162 (58.4%) of 277 RNs, with a mean age of 29.55 (SD 5.97). Professional self-concept and problem-solving abilities were moderate. Moreover, professional self-concept and problem-solving ability differed based on marital status, the educational track at university, monthly income, working area, shift system, and career stages. The results showed a negative relationship between the professional self-concept and problem-solving ability (r = −0.29, P < 0.001).Conclusion Jordanian RNs have a high general perception level of professional self-concept and moderate problem-solving ability. Nurses with a higher professional self-concept would promote their ability to solve problems.