Exploring work readiness: A qualitative descriptive study of self-perceptions among new graduate nurses.

Background: Reduced work readiness is associated with elevated turnover rates, necessitating efforts to enhance the positive work readiness of newly graduated nurses to alleviate the shortage in the nursing workforce. Research into the work readiness of recent nursing graduates in China is still in its infancy. Most studies employ quantitative research methods, and further exploration of the self-perception of work readiness among new nurses in China is required. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate genuine experiences and self-perceptions of work readiness among new graduate nurses. Design: A qualitative descriptive study. Methods: Sixteen new nurses from a provincial tertiary hospital in China were included in this study, which adhered to the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist for reporting. The data collection process involved conducting semi-structured interviews from September to October 2021. Inductive content analysis was employed to analyze the interview data. Results: The study identified four themes encompassing new nurses' real-life experiences and self-perceptions of work readiness: psychological stress, emotional conflict, empathy fatigue, and ethical dilemmas. Psychological stress comprised three subthemes: knowledge and skill deficits, communication barriers, and fear. Empathy fatigue was primarily characterized by psychological and physical symptoms. Ethical dilemmas involved conflicts over differences in values and between clinical reality and standardized nursing practice. Conclusion: Drawing from the self-perceptions of work readiness among new nurses found in this study, nursing administrators and educators must enhance the existing transition support program for new nurses. Additionally, the establishment of individualized training programs is recommended to further improve the work readiness of new nurses.