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.