Appl Nurs Res. 2026 Apr;88:152062. doi: 10.1016/j.apnr.2026.152062. Epub 2026 Feb 5.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Lifelong learning, counseling self-efficacy, and professional self-doubt are key determinants of nursing excellence, particularly in high-stress environments such as Emergency Departments (EDs) and Critical Care Units (CCUs). Understanding how these factors interact can inform strategies to enhance professional development and patient-centered care among nurses.
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the relationships between lifelong learning tendencies, counseling self-efficacy, professional self-doubt, and perceptions of nursing excellence among emergency and critical care nurses in Turkey.
METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional design was employed with 744 registered nurses from 14 hospitals (8 governmental, 6 private). Participants were recruited via convenience sampling, and data were collected through a structured online questionnaire. Instruments included the Lifelong Learning Tendencies Scale (LLLTS), Counseling Self-Estimate Inventory (COSE), Professional Self-Doubt Scale (PSD), Good Nurse Questionnaire, and Better Nursing Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics summarized participant demographics and scores, while Pearson correlation coefficients examined relationships among the study variables.
RESULTS: Nurses reported moderately high lifelong learning tendencies (mean = 4.12, SD = 1.65), with motivation and persistence as the strongest sub-dimensions. Counseling self-efficacy was generally high (mean = 4.75, SD = 0.77), particularly in micro-skills and cultural competence. Professional self-doubt was moderate (mean = 2.82, SD = 1.07), with higher uncertainty reported when nurses felt unable to influence patient outcomes. Positive correlations were found between lifelong learning and professional competency (r = 0.41, p = 0.003), sense of achievement (r = 0.36, p = 0.009), expertise in nursing (r = 0.42, p = 0.002), and counseling self-efficacy subdomains, while professional self-doubt correlated negatively (r = -0.29, p = 0.049).
CONCLUSIONS: Nurses demonstrating stronger professional competence, confidence in counseling skills, and a sense of accomplishment were more inclined toward continuous learning and professional development. These findings underscore the importance of fostering lifelong learning and counseling self-efficacy while addressing professional self-doubt to enhance nursing excellence in critical care and emergency settings.
PMID:41826033 | DOI:10.1016/j.apnr.2026.152062
