Re-Adaptation Experiences of Nurses Returning to Clinical Practice After Postgraduate Study: A Qualitative Study

The reintegration of highly educated nurses into clinical practice represents a critical challenge in global healthcare workforce management.

This study explored the re-adaptation experiences of clinical nurses who returned to practice after leaving their positions to pursue postgraduate education, to inform effective support strategies.

A phenomenological study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with nine master's-prepared nurses from two tertiary hospitals in Jiangxi Province (Feb-Mar 2025). Data were analysed using Colaizzi's seven-step method.

Motivations for return included balancing ideals with reality, career advancement, and policy influences. Common barriers were role conflict, skill gaps, and workplace pressure, while institutional support and self-development facilitated reintegration. Nurses successfully adapted by integrating their new roles, seeking support, and self-adjusting.

The re-adaptation process is complex and multifaceted. We recommend that hospitals establish dual clinical-research career tracks and refine tiered employment mechanisms to enhance professional identity and job fit.