Faculty Members' Background Characteristics in Clinical Tutoring in Nursing Department: A Qualitative Study

Background: Nursing education is part of a higher education system dealing with the lives of human beings, and paying attention to it is of particular importance. This study was conducted to identify the faculty members' background characteristics in clinical tutoring in nursing department. Methods: The study was conducted using qualitative research approach. Data collection was performed using semi-structured interviews, extensive literature review and observation of the existing situation. Then, by specifying the various dimensions and items, the effective fundamental characteristics in clinical teaching of faculty members of the nursing department were determined. Results: The three important and effective fundamental characteristics features or classes relevant to the findings of the data analysis in this study are as follows: 1. Faculty member’s personal characteristics: Adherence to administrative, cultural and Islamic value - adherence to the principles of professional ethics - management ability - positive job and social attitude. 2. Faculty member's nursing professional characteristics: Having theoretical knowledge and practical skills. 3. Faculty member's tutorial characteristics: Observance of educational rules, ability to follow the principles of educational planning, ability to teach, ability to persuade and motivate students, ability to evaluate, research capabilities, teaching experience, professional ability and ability to develop professionally and scientifically. Conclusions: Paying attention to the instructor as the most effective factor in clinical education and recognition of the challenges associated with this factor is very important and effective for improving the quality of clinical education. In this regard, the use of a correct and effective evaluation system is very important. Therefore, determination of the effective fundamental characteristics in clinical teaching of faculty members of the nursing department is necessary to improve the quality of education and ultimately improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the educational system.