Nursing based on professional values: selected psychometric properties of the Polish version of the Nurses Professional Values Scale-Three (NPVS-3-POL)

Introduction: The Nurses Professional Values Scale - Third Version (NPVS-3) was originally based on the American Nurses Association's Code of Ethics, which was created in 1985. Measuring professional values among nurses is extremely important, as this is a key factor affecting nurses' work environment and the quality of patient care. Research on professional values will help improve nursing practice at every stage, both in the learning process and during professional work. Aim of the research: To analyse the psychometric properties and adaptation of the cultural scale (NPVS-3-POL) that is used to assess nurses' professional values. Material and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Polish nursing students (n = 379), between May 2021 and July 2021. The survey was conducted in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines. Results: The 28-item model of the Polish version of the NPVS-3 showed an acceptable fit relative to the original version. One item which had a low factor load was removed from the study. Internal consistency of the scale was 0.95, which is a satisfactory result. The Polish version of the NPVS-3 showed good internal consistency, with Cronbach's a values reaching 0.92 for caring, 0.89 for activism, and 0.84 for professionalism. Conclusions: The Polish version of the NPVS-3 is a reliable research tool, allowing this version to be used to assess professional values among Polish nurses, and to conduct national and international research regarding this important issue.