Influencing factors of sense of responsibility among undergraduate nursing students: A cross-sectional study

Background: Nursing students are critical in responding to public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Their ability to fulfill their responsibilities is influenced by their sense of responsibility, which holds profound cultural significance, particularly in traditional Chinese culture. However, limited research has specifically explored the sense of responsibility among undergraduate nursing students in China and globally.Objectives: This study aimed to determine the sense of responsibility among undergraduate nursing students and identify potential factors associated with it.Design, setting & participants: We conducted a cross-sectional study and recruited 526 nursing students from June to July 2022 in Guizhou province in southwest China.Methods: Participants completed the General Information Questionnaire, Sense of Responsibility, and Self-esteem Scale. We analyzed the relationship between a sense of responsibility and self-esteem using Spearman correlation analysis. Then we determined factors that affect undergraduate nursing students' sense of responsibility using multiple linear stepwise regression.Results: Nursing students' total sense of responsibility scores were 96(84,106). The study found a positive association between self-esteem and a sense of responsibility (r = 0.433, P < 0.001) and its four dimensions: altruism (r = 0.381, P < 0.001), self-control (r = 0.378, P < 0.001), courage (r = 0.300, p < 0.001), and commitment (r = 0.361, P < 0.001). Self-esteem (13 =1.532, p < 0.001), personality (extroverted personality 13 = 7.263, P < 0.001; neutral personality 13 = 3.221, P = 0.029), and social practice experience (13 = -3.156, P = 0.010) significantly influenced undergraduate nursing students' sense of responsibility (R-2 = 0.268, F = 17.065, P < 0.001).Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of nursing students' sense of responsibility and suggests room for improvement in its level. Higher self-esteem was associated with a stronger sense of responsibility. Additionally, self-esteem, personality, and social practice experience emerged as significant influencing factors. Nursing educators should prioritize students' sense of responsibility and explore targeted interventions, such as social practice activities, particularly for students with low self-esteem and introversion.