New Graduate Nurses' Experiences by Generation in South Korea: A Qualitative Meta-Synthesis

As the nursing organization environment evolves into one in which several generations work together, there are concerns about generational differences leading to conflicts.

A synthesis of qualitative studies was used to gain insight into the experiences and perceptions of new nurses working in South Korean hospitals and identify generational differences between nurses of Generations X and Y.

Eight databases were searched systematically for qualitative studies published up to June 2020. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme Checklist for Qualitative Research was used to evaluate the quality of the retrieved studies, and the data were synthesized thematically using the Thomas and Harden method.

Of the 2,482 studies retrieved, 19 were included in this meta-synthesis. The experience of new nurses were presented in the three analytical themes of work experience, interpersonal relationships, and adaptation, from which eight descriptive themes were derived: (a) dissatisfied with own work performance, (b) negative feedback on work outcomes, (c) irregular daily life, (d) colleagues who help adapt to work life or make work life harder, (e) feelings of sympathy toward peers, (f) disrespectful patients or caregivers, (g) effective reactions, and (h) ineffective reactions. Although the new nurses from Generations X and Y reported similar experiences during their first year of nursing, differences were found in their values and tendencies regarding work and interpersonal relationships. Compared with new Generation X nurses, new Generation Y nurses placed more value on the meaning of individual work contributions, intimacy with colleagues, and appropriate feedback.

The findings of this study support nursing administrators implementing strategies that both acknowledge and reduce the impact of generational category on nursing teams. Furthermore, emphasizing communication and acknowledging ongoing change as generations progress may strengthen bonds that lead nurses to value each other and their work.