Strategy actions to include students in a private hospital's nursing teams: A qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Management
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Student nurse education is vital for developing competent healthcare professionals.
• Integrating students effectively into nursing teams is a key challenge.
• This research addresses the need for strategic actions to enhance student nurse inclusion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop strategic actions for including student nurses within the nursing team.
• To identify key factors influencing student nurse integration and retention.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for healthcare organizations.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative, three-phase approach was employed in a South African private healthcare setting.
• Methods included reflective journals, nominal group technique, and an e-Delphi technique.
• Data analysis involved thematic analysis and open coding of participant feedback.

Main Results:

• Phase one identified themes of responsibility, support, recognition, conflict, and communication.
• Phase two revealed five strategic actions: fair treatment, aligned work allocation, active participation, respect, and acknowledgement.
• Phase three validated 19 strategic statements supporting these actions.

Conclusions:

• Unit managers significantly influence student nurse inclusivity and retention.
• Effective integration of student nurses enhances team cohesion, workplace wellness, and patient outcomes.
• Strategic actions are essential for successful student nurse integration and professional development.