The contested work place: reactions to hospital based RNs doing degrees.

This article focuses on the findings from a research project investigating hospital based RNs' attitudes and reactions to nursing degrees. Specifically, the results describe the tension and hostility which was predominating in clinical settings when the research was conducted. The reactions of both degree and non-degree nurses to the changes in nursing education are put forward. It is suggested by the author that while work environments have been characterised by destructive behaviours, nurses' verbalising their reactions to this situation, have provided a platform to deal more constructively with personal and professional change.