Objective To investigate the current situation and influencing factors of career planning among nurses with a bachelor′s or higher degree in western China. Methods A total of 2 704 nurses with a bachelor′s or higher degree in western China were enrolled to fill out the General Information Questionnaire and the Personal Career Planning Scale by means of field survey to comprehend the current situation and influencing factors of career planning of nursing staff.Results The nurses averaged (37.96±8.71) points in career planning. The dimensions were arranged in descending order by dimension scores as follows:continuous learning, focusing on relationships, establishing career goals and strategies, and self-presentation. Educational attainment, years of working, work positions, professional titles and whether being a specialist nurse certificate holder contributed to influence career planning of nursing staff (P<0.01 for all). Conclusion Career planning in nursing staff in western China is at medium level. Hospital nursing managers should pay attention to the continuing education and learning of nursing staff, provide more career development opportunities and strengthen the training of specialist nurses, help them establish a correct professional ideology and perspective of development as early as possible, so as to make them better adapt to the needs of hospital in the new era.