Challenges and factors likely to promote coping as anticipated by nurses preparing for a merger of intensive and intermediate care units

Abstract

Objective

To describe challenges and factors that support coping as anticipated by nursing staff preparing for a merger of intensive and intermediate care units.

Research methodology

The method of empathy-based stories was employed to collect data from staff. The stories (n = 20) were analysed using inductive content analysis.

Setting

Nursing staff from the cardiac observation and evaluation, intensive care and surgical observation units in a central hospital in Finland.

Findings

Participants anticipated challenges related to personal factors that affect coping at work, challenges in co-operation among nursing staff and problems associated with the new work context. Participants expected to need informational, concrete and social support from colleagues in future clinical nursing situations.

Conclusion

Fostering peer support and team spirit is important to ensure staff co-operation and smooth care processes following restructuring.

Keywords: Nurse, Qualitative research, Anticipated experiences, Support, Restructuring