Critical Care Nurses’ Perspectives of Caring for Patients With Cancer

Abstract

Background Critical care nurses are expected to work with patients who present with a wide range of health problems, but may lack sufficient education, skill development, and resources needed for providing psychosocial cancer care. Objective The purpose of this study was to gain a deeper understanding of nononcologic critical care nurses’ experience working with patients and their families affected by cancer. Method A phenomenological qualitative study using semistructured interviews was conducted with 15 nononcologic critical care nurses. Colaizzi’s 7-step methodology was followed for data analysis and interpretation of findings. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, the narrative data were analyzed and coded, and themes were identified that were confirmed by participants. Results Four themes emerged from the nurses’ narratives: lack of professional preparation refers to the perceived lack of education, skill development, and resources; collaboration and teamwork pertain to the importance of communication and moral support; being present expresses their perceived role in providing compassionate care; and nurtured empathy reflects the impact of cancer care on the nurses. Discussion The narratives provide insight into the experience and perceptions of the nononcologic critical care nurses caring for patients with cancer. Information from the themes and narratives can be used to inform the development of knowledge and skills for nononcologic nurses who provide care to patients with cancer.