China's cultivation of master nursing specialist: A qualitative content analysis of the stakeholders

To assess the Master of Nursing Specialist (MNS) in China from the perspectives of relevant stakeholders to assist the sustained development of the MNS program.

With the growing demand for quality nursing care, the cultivation of higher-level specialized nursing professionals continues to be challenging.

A descriptive qualitative study.

The study used a convenience sampling method. Stakeholders of MNS education in the interviews included graduates of the MNS program, hospital administrators and healthcare policymakers. The individual semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone, online interview, or face-to-face between April and December 2020. All interview materials were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim and were analyzed using the qualitative content analysis approach.

A total of 27 stakeholders completed the interviews, including 11 MNS graduates, 11 hospital administrators and 5 healthcare policymakers. Attitudes about and confirmation of the MNS program were collected as well as suggestions about further optimization. Three themes or categories were identified: the paradox of MNS prospects, current conditions of MNS education and strategic actions for further optimization.

Our findings were based on the relevant stakeholders' views toward MNS education, providing a multidimensional view when combined. The results reflected the current state and future direction of MNS education in China, which will help sustain the development of MNS programs. The practice and experience in China will enlighten other developing countries with similar backgrounds.