Experiences of Nursing Interns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Saudi Arabia: A Phenomenological Study
2024

Experiences of Nursing Interns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Saudi Arabia

Sample size: 15 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Ismail Ahmad, Gashgari Rawan

Primary Institution: Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences

Hypothesis

This study aimed to explore the nursing interns’ experience regarding their clinical placement in the NICU in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

Supportive NICU staff and practical involvement enhanced effective learning, while administrative tasks and improper use of interns’ time posed significant barriers.

Supporting Evidence

  • Nursing interns reported pleasant experiences such as patient improvement and bonding with families.
  • Support from NICU staff and families was crucial for encouraging nursing interns.
  • Nursing interns faced barriers like stress, limited hands-on experience, and unclear objectives.
  • Regular assessment and feedback were emphasized as important for interns' growth.

Takeaway

Nursing interns in the NICU have both good and bad experiences; they feel happy when babies get better but also face challenges like stress and not enough hands-on practice.

Methodology

A phenomenological study was used to understand the lived experience of nursing interns in the NICU, with data collected through two semi-structured focus group interviews.

Potential Biases

The study may be influenced by the subjective interpretations of the researchers.

Limitations

The qualitative nature of the research introduces subjectivity in interpreting the results, and the data were collected from a single setting, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

Nursing interns who completed their internships at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.7759/cureus.74893

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