Changes in the sense of coherence in the course of nursing studies

Introduction
The sense of coherence is one of the important personal resources that optimize the way in which students are able to function, because it helps when having to cope with stress and plays an important role in protecting their physical and mental health.

Aim of the study
The purpose of the research was to evaluate the level of coherence and its changes that were observed among bachelor’s degree students of nursing.

Material and methods
Research was carried out on a group of 196 students of nursing from four universities in the South of Poland. Research was based on the diagnostic survey method. The tools employed in the research included Social Orientation Questionnaire (SOC 13) as well as a self-designed questionnaire for sociodemographic data.

Results
During subsequent years of nursing studies, an increase in the global sense of coherence was observed, especially with regard to its two components: a sense of ingenuity and a sense of intelligibility.

Conclusions
The results obtained in the research allow one to conclude that the observed increase in the sense of coherence during nursing studies is conducive to better coping with stress, stimulates motivation for practicing the profession and indicates the positive impact of nursing studies on the students’ personal development.