What Are The Barriers Related To The Retention Of Nursing Students

In recent years, university and colleges have been concerned with factors related to decreasing retention of students in the nursing programs. Since the 20th century, there has been a decline in retaining students in nursing programs (Bigbee & Mixon, 2013). However, the issue of retention became more prominent as changes occurred in the secondary educational system and as guidelines related to financial assistance changed. Many students enter postsecondary programs unprepared for the challenges colleges, thus contributing to being unsuccessful in nursing school. Review of literature revealed several other barriers that contribute to student being unsuccessful. The top barriers included lack of financial support, inadequate emotional support, low self-efficacy, and time constraints.
A review of the literature found a major barrier interfering with the success of students is financial constraints. Many of today’s students are considered nontraditional and have many responsibilities outside of the classroom that require the student to work. If unable or not allowed to work, students risk losing the necessities needed for
Students find it difficult to balance personal life and a school schedule. Students find the rigor of nursing school overwhelming. Often, in nursing, students are in the classroom six to eight hours a day and clinical can range from eight to twelve hours, two or three days a week. The school leaves little time for family or extracurricular activities. At least 35% of a student’s day is dedicated to class, studying, and preparing for the next scheduled class (Dapremont, 2014). Students with families struggle with feeling as though they have abandoned their responsibilities. Mothers returning to the classroom often feel guilt when not able to cook a meal or attend a child’s activity. As a result, many withdraw with the hope of returning to school when the children are more