Examination of Countermeasures in a Ward: Novice Nurses’ Perception of Issues Relating to Senior Nurses

Abstract

Purpose: In Japan, demand for nursing is high. However, some novice nurses are unable to adapt to the workplace, and subsequently quit. This study aimed at clarifying relationship issues between novice and senior nurses and examining measures that could be enforced in wards for novice nurses based on the results. Methods: An inductive analysis was conducted on qualitative data from semi-structured interviews with 11 newly hired nurses who had recently graduated from nursing school. The study period was from November 2016 to March 2017. Results: The analysis generated the following three themes related to potential workplace maladaptation: 1) Adaptation to the workplace: difficulty in forming relationships with senior nurses and adapting, 2) Workplace education system: education by preceptors and senior nurses, 3) Professional stance: qualities as a nurse. Conclusion: The results indicated that novice nurses had difficulties in adapting to the workplace as well as its education system in wards. Hence, it was necessary to create habits that would not overly burden others, but instead, spread the rules of the organization, help novice nurses to understand their responsibilities, and assist them in overcoming challenges.