Nursing Competency and Professional Attitude among Novice Nurses in a Department of Health (DOH) Retained Hospital

Abstract

This study assessed the level of nursing competency and professional attitude among novice nurses and examined their relationships with selected demographic characteristics. A quantitative descriptive–correlational design was employed in government retained hospital in the Surigao del Norte, Philippines. A complete enumeration of 126 newly hired registered nurses engaged in direct patient care participated. Data were collected using the Nursing Competency Scale (NCS) and the Professional Attitude Scale for Nurses (PASN). Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, Cramer’s V, and Pearson correlation coefficients analyzed the data. Ethical standards and informed consent were observed throughout the study. Most respondents were 18–35 years old, female, single, and held a bachelor’s degree. Overall, novice nurses demonstrated high nursing competency across all domains, excelling in Helping Role, Teaching-Coaching, and Therapeutic Interventions, with slightly lower performance in Diagnostic Functions. Professional attitude was predominantly high, indicating strong ethical awareness, accountability, and engagement in professional roles. Sex was significantly associated with both competency and professional attitude, while educational attainment correlated with professional attitude. A strong positive relationship was observed between competency and professional attitude (r = 0.692, p < 0.001), suggesting that clinical skills and professional behavior are interdependent. Novice nurses in a DOH-retained hospital exhibit high competency and professional attitude, with gaps in diagnostic interpretation and complex decision-making. Targeted mentorship, structured training, and continuous professional development are recommended to strengthen readiness for high-acuity patient care.