Empirically generated attributes of experience in nursing

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Clinical Decision-Making
• Grounded Theory

Background:

• Previous research conceptualized nurse experience as time or practice knowledge.
• Clinical decision-making is influenced by nurse experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conceptualize nurse experience within the 'knowing the patient' decision-making process.
• To define nurse experience based on grounded theory.

Main Methods:

• Grounded theory approach.
• Constant comparative method for data analysis.
• Open, axial, and selective coding techniques.

Main Results:

• Nurse experience defined as applying learned practice.
• Identified attributes: patient focus, practice confidence, knowledge of situation antecedents/consequences.
• Experience enhances individualized nursing interventions.

Conclusions:

• Nurse experience is an active application of past learning.
• Findings offer insights for nursing practice and decision-making.
• Experience is crucial for personalized patient care.