The lived experiences of novice nurses caring for cancer patients in an oncology setting

Abstract

Background: The role of the oncology nurse entails a very challenging but rewarding experience, especially to novice nurses. However, there is a dearth in the literature both locally and internationally on the lived experiences of novice nurses in this setting. Appositely, this study explores the perceived challenges and rewards novice nurses experience in the oncology setting, including coping strategies and the support available. Design and Method: A qualitative approach that draws upon the principles of Descriptive Phenomenology was adopted. The participants were selected by purposive sampling and took part in semi-structured interviews. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and the data analysed using thematic analysis. Setting: The study was conducted at a public hospital in Malta which provides oncology care. Participants: Eight Maltese female nurses with no more than two years of experience in the oncology setting. Results: Four main themes emerged from the data, namely: personal challenges; organizational challenges; coping strategies; and rewards. Conclusions: Novice nurses in this setting felt personally challenged when dealing with oncology patients and were thus emotionally affected when caring for them. They encountered organizational challenges which included a shortage of nursing staff, inadequate induction courses and difficulties presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, nurses also reported positive outcomes when working in this setting, including personal coping strategies, such as obtaining support from family, friends, and colleagues. The nurses also reported a sense of gratification, and professional and personal growth.