Learning Objective 1: 1. The Learner will be able to identify three interpersonal stressors that have impacted the safety of nursing practice in an ICU.
Learning Objective 2: 2. The Learner will be able to identify three interventions that are perceived to promote safe nursing practice in an ICU.
Methods: Setting for this qualitative descriptive study was a 26 bed ICU of a hospital in a small town in a southern state. Data was obtained from 8 focus groups of 6-8 nurses each. Interview questions focused on challenging disruptive factors, coping with difficult situations, communication and teamwork, and ways enhance safe practice. Transcripts were analyzed for themes that represent perceptions of stressors affecting nursing practice and perceptions of behaviors facilitating safety in the nursing practice environment. Data were reviewed the researchers independently. A primary limitation is the use of one unit in one hospital for the study.
Results: Stressors were identified in areas of leadership, staff support / communication, critical thinking, resources, and nursing practice environment. Behaviors to facilitate safe practice were identified, and included administrator, nurse, and physician behaviors, as well as environmental factors.
Conclusion: The results of this study identified interpersonal and environmental stressors that impact safe nursing practice in this ICU. Safety is a priority concern in our health care system, and this research will provide guidelines for facilitating the development of specific skills and behaviors to promote safety in the nursing practice environment.
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