Exploring factors which contribute to the resilience of nurses working in the neonatal care unit: A grounded theory study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to produce a theoretical model to understand factors which affect the resilience of neonatal nurses.Nurses experience high levels of burnout due to the occupational stress they are exposed to. Burnout negatively affects both staff and patient outcomes, and in this population would likely affect the establishment of crucial early caregiver-infant relationships in the neonatal unit. Research suggests that increasing nurses’ resilience can protect them against burnout, thus understanding factors that affect resilience in this population is critical. Research methodologyThe study adopted a constructivist grounded theory design. Setting and participantsAll participants were qualified registered nurses employed on a permanent basis in a Level 3 neonatal unit.Thirteen registered nurses attended one individual semi-structured interview. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to analyse the subsequent verbatim transcripts. FindingsThe resulting model identified that individuals working as nurses in the neonatal unit function within different systemic contexts: the nursing team; the family unit; the broader neonatal team; the National Health Service and their world outside the unit. Each context presents different practical, emotional and ethical challenges. These challenges are navigated through a combination of contextual, interpersonal and intrapersonal strategies. ConclusionsThe model is contextually embedded and extends existing literature pertaining to resilience of healthcare staff in other contexts. Suggestions are made in terms of adaptations to the organisational, social and individual contexts to benefit nursing resilience. Implications of the findings are also considered within the context of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.