Peer Caring and Civility in Nursing Education: Measurement and Influencing Factors

The purpose of this study was to measure peer caring in prelicensure nursing students and to identify contributing factors. A convenience sample of nursing students in California was surveyed using the Peer Group Caring Interactions Scale and open-ended questions about contributing factors. Fifty responses were gathered. The mean Peer Group Caring Interactions Scale score was 75.5 (range 16-96). Factors affecting peer caring behaviors, including competition and peer support, have not been fully described in the literature and should be explored further. The results can be used as an estimated baseline measure for ongoing studies.