Intensive care unit patients in the postanesthesia care unit: a case study exploring nurses' experiences

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Management
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Postanesthesia care units (PACUs) are increasingly admitting intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
• This shift necessitates a deeper understanding of the experiences of nurses managing these complex patients within the PACU setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of postanesthesia nurses providing care to ICU patients within the PACU.
• To identify the challenges and adaptations involved in this evolving nursing practice.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative interpretive description design was employed.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six experienced PACU nurses.
• Verbatim transcripts were analyzed using constant comparative analysis to identify emergent themes.

Main Results:

• Three overarching themes emerged: 'expert mind-set,' 'specialty practice,' and 'identity and relationships.'
• Nurses described a 'knowing but not doing' dichotomy and navigating concurrent duties.
• Challenges included a lack of support within the PACU context and perceived tension in interdepartmental relationships with the ICU.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights significant challenges faced by expert nurses during unplanned practice changes.
• Findings underscore the need for supportive structures and clear role definitions when PACU nurses care for ICU patients.