Fourth year intellectual disability student nurses’ journey and future work intention: a qualitative study

Background: The aim of this qualitative study is to explore the views and experiences of fnal year BSc intellectual  disability nursing students’ journey, future work plans and examine factors infuencing their migration intentions fol‑ lowing graduation. Methods: A qualitative component of a mixed methods study where a focus group interview was conducted with  fnal year BSc intellectual disability nursing students (n=10) from one University in Ireland in June 2019. A topic guide  was utilised, and participant’s were interviewed about their programme, future work plans and migration intentions.  An inductive approach was utilised, and data were analysed using a pre-existing framework for initial coding and  thematic development. Dufy’s conceptual model of identity transformation provided a structure to analyse the data  and map themes onto the conceptual framework. Results: The fndings were mapped onto the fve stages of Dufy’s (2013) conceptual model of identity transforma‑ tion: Pre-Entry; Reafrming; Surmounting; Stabilising and Actualising. Findings indicate that further work is required to  promote intellectual disability nursing and address professional esteem issues, support for education and professional  development, such as providing career guidance opportunities prior to course completion, development of clinical  skills within their education programme and support for the professional development of new graduates. Participant’s  identifed uncertainty about career opportunities and saw scope for future professional development opportunities  particularly in community-based work. Conclusion: This study has identifed that fnal year intellectual disability nursing students are uncertain about career  options and opportunities for intellectual disability nurses in other country’s. There is an urgent need for the intellectual disability nursing profession to articulate their practice and advocate for their role and contribution to the care of  people with intellectual disability. This study identifed a clear need for direction and information regarding intellectual disability nursing roles and career opportunities