Introduction. This article discusses the issues of axiological correlates of the sense of national identity in nurses emigrating for economic reasons. The man on the threshold of the third millennium is marked by changes that take place in every aspect of his/her life. Such phenomena as internationalism or multiculturalism, make us become a kind of ‘super-family’, as Anthony D. Smith and Y. Seleti state. In these structural transformations various social groups recognize their chances for a safer life, better wages or improvement of general living conditions. Therefore, people particularly well educated and with language skills plan their careers internationally. Aim. This paper attempts to analyze the motives and the range of emigration for economic reasons in Polish nurses. This problem is closely linked to the identity aspect, since a change of place often forces the individual to change identity. Therefore, the authors evaluate selected socio-cultural correlates, on which the sense of national identity in nurses taking up paid jobs outside the Polish borders is focsed. Material and methods. The data on this subject were obtained through analysis of scientific literature sources, online resources and the method of a narrative interview, which according to F. Schütze is ‘individual social reality’ [3]. In order to examine the variables considered, questions have been developed using a Likert scale. The study was conducted in a group of 34 nurses who started working in eight EU countries. Conclusions. Analysis of the results revealed that the vast majority of respondents had a high sense of national identity. Historical memory, cultivating Polish customs and habits are very close to them. Care about culture and religion, as well as attachment to symbols, traditions and the mother tongue. An important thing demonstrating the sense of national identity is also the will to participate in celebrations associated with Poland in countries the nurses reside. The respondents’ answers clearly indicate that the decision on economic emigration was dictated by the possibility to improve wages and working conditions. A vast majority of nurses say that if the level of earnings increases and working conditions improve, they will continue their professional career in Poland.

Key words: national identity, sense of national identity, economic migrations, nurses.