J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2011 May;18(2):226-236.

Lived Adaptation Experiences of New ICU Nurses Who are Working in a Newly Established University Hospital

• Park HS
• Kim KN
• Kang EH
• Lee JM
• Park SM

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to determine the meaning of the adaptation experiences of new ICU nurses who were working in a newly established university hospital. The study was based on phenomenological research methodology.
METHODS
Data were collected over 3 months through in depth interview with 6 new nurses who had worked less than 1 year in a newly established ICU of university hospital of less than 1 year located in Y city. The Colaizzi analysis method was used for data analysis.
RESULTS
The themes were classified into 13 themes clusters. The 13 themes clusters were finally grouped into 6 categories, 'The endlessness of a new beginning', 'Pressure of work due to lack of senior nurses', 'Wanting to quit', 'Attachment for the complete hospital and ICU', 'Preciousness of colleagues', 'Pride in self-growth'.
CONCLUSION
New ICU nurses have a difficult time due to pressures of work and lack of expert knowledge, and anxiety adds to these problems making the situation more difficult. The study results indicate that professional knowledge and skills learned through repetition of difficult work, pride through self growth, recognition from others and good-fellowship are driving forces to overcome obstacles and with stand difficult daily work.

Keyword

Nurses; Intensive Care Units; Adaptation; Qualitative Research

MeSH Terms

Anxiety
Intensive Care Units
Qualitative Research