The experience of agency nurses working in a London teaching hospital

Summary 

This Husserlian phenomenological study explored the lived experience of eight full-time agency nurses working in the environment of intensive care in London, United Kingdom. In-depth interviews were used to ascertain the participants’ experiences of full-time agency nursing in intensive care. Colaizzi's [Colaizzi P. Psychological research as the phenomenologist views it. In: Vale R, King M, editors. Existential-phenomenological alternatives for psychology. London: Oxford University Press; 1978, p. 48–71] method of data analysis was utilised. Thematic analysis identified three cluster themes: the shared experience of lacking confidence; the shared experience of deskilling; and the shared experience of feelings of isolation.

The theme of the shared experience of lacking confidence identified the importance of support and understanding of agency nurses’ needs in the ICU. The theme of the shared experience of deskilling illuminated participants concern at not having the opportunity to care for patients of higher acuity. The theme of the shared experience of feelings of isolation highlighted that often participants did not feel they “belonged to a team”.

Study findings suggest the need to include: the implementation of protocols within the clinical setting; the provision of performance feedback to agency nurses; and the consideration of ongoing structured professional development and education for ICU agency nurses.

Keywords: Phenomenology, Qualitative research, Agency nurses, Temporary workers, Intensive care