“Hear Me Out, Please…”: The Experience of the Novice Critical Care Nurse When Embarking in the Critical Care Areas

Abstract

Introduction: The readiness of novice critical care nurses (NCCN) to perform efficiently has been doubted globally. Studies have reported that novice nurses have issues with their confidence and competence in handling critical patients in ICU. Their lack of confidence and competence may promote more harm to the patient’s condition study aim is to explore the experience of novice critical care nurses when embarking in critical care areas.Methods: This study was carried out using a general qualitative design. Data were collected through an in-depth interview in exploring NCCN experiences, challenges, and needs while working in the critical care setting. They were recruited from a teaching hospital located in East Coast Malaysia. Data were organised and analysed manually using the thematic analysis approach. Finding: A total of 20 participants was recruited for the study. The majority of the participants are Malay, female, and graduated with Diploma in Nursing from Malaysia. The study reported three main themes; (1) Handling complex patients (2) Familiarised with the equipment and environment, and (3) Mixed feelings during the transition. Themes revealed in the study have proposed that NCCN is eager for support when embarking in the areas.Conclusion: Acknowledge the struggle faced by the NCCN may seem small to others. But it can free up some space in their mind to continue the growth expected and needed from them. Therefore, it could be beneficial to the health setting and patients’ care.