[Development of standards and criteria for accreditation of a baccalaureate nursing education program: reflections on the unique characteristics of the nursing profession].

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine characteristics of nursing science and identify expected outcomes from baccalaureate graduates, and to develop accreditation standards and criteria reflecting the characteristics of the nursing profession.

Methods: A methodological research design was utilized in this study. Related literature reviews and the nursing education program goals and objectives of the 99 nursing schools in Korea were analyzed. A cross-sectional survey research design was utilized to test the validity of the developed characteristics of the nursing profession and their accreditation criteria and standards. The face validity was from the advisory committee and public committee hearing.

Results: The characteristics of nursing science were defined with five concepts including humanity, scientific knowledge, professionalism, therapeutic relationship, and facilitating well-being. The expected outcomes from graduates were identified as providing holistic nursing, critical thinking, establishing professionalism and leadership, construction of a therapeutic relationship, and skilled nursing practice. Finally 6 standards and 14 criteria reflecting the unique characteristics of the nursing profession were developed for accreditation. These proposed accreditation standards and criteria are a challenge to promote the quality of nursing science.