Factors Influencing Probation in Graduated Students of Kashan Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery

Introduction: One of the major problems in educational systems is students' probation during their course of study. With regard to the importance of identifying factors affecting the incidence of probation, this study was performed to determine the status of incidence of probation and its related factors in all graduated students of Kashan Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery. Methods: All graduated students of Kashan Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery (n=1174) during the years 1981 till 2003 were selected through census in this cross-sectional study. The data was gathered by a questionnaire including demographic information and probation status (probation records, probation semester, and the number of probation semesters). Incidence of probation was calculated and odds ratio and difference percentage were used for analyzing the status of probable related factors. Results: Probation record was argued in 46 students (3.9%) that 26 of them (2.2%) were probated just for one semester, 11 of them (0.9%) for two semesters, 8 of them (0.7%) for three semesters, and, 1 of them (0.1%) for four semesters. The utmost frequency was related to the second academic semester and then, the first semester. The average score of high school diploma and age were different in probated and not probated graduated students. The most expectancy of probation risk was related to master program and nursing discipline. Conclusion: Demographic features, educational background, and admission criteria are among factors affecting probation. Therefore, with regard to their role, it is necessary to identify at risk students and support them.