Experience of second-line on duty senior nurses participating in rescue on night shift: a qualitative research

Abstract

Objective To explore the work experience and responding measures of the second-line on duty senior nurses in night shift rescue. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted in 11 nurses and the interview data were collected and analyzed by phenomenological research method. Results The work experience of the second-line on duty senior nurses in night shift rescue was divided into three stages and eight topics. Before rescue: the influence of working environment on sleep; concerns over the incompetence of the emergency work because of the unfamiliarity of the specialty; the invisible pressure from their responsibility. During the rescue: the ability of quick adjustment into new environment and rescue state; timely detection and suppression of potential security risks of nursing; the perception of lack of knowledge in night shift nurses and themselves. After the rescue: occupational pride gained from emergency rescue; and the desire for knowledge. Conclusions Nursing managers should pay attention to the work experience of the senior nurses who are on the duty of second-line and take effective interventions to better play the role of senior nurses, at the same time, improve the working ability of night duty nurses to ensure the quality and safety of night nursing work. Key words: Nurses; Senior; Second-line on duty; Night rescue; Qualitative research