A qualitative case study review of role transition in community nursing.
OBJECTIVE
This paper aims to describe existing community nursing practices and to explore factors that are associated with the transition of clinical practice from acute care settings to community care settings.


METHODS
This qualitative case study assessment described existing community nurse practices and explored factors that were associated with the transition to community practice from acute care settings. The 48 participants in this case study were registered nurses who were working in community care nursing during the interview process.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this investigation revealed themes derived from data collection, including autonomy, client and family, education, and community as nursing work. This study indicated that making the transition to community-based nursing includes conceptual as well as emotional adjustments. Community nursing practice was seen by the participants as nursing that captures a holistic approach incorporating multiple dimensions from psychological, sociological, economic, and physical to spiritual aspects that provides services in interaction between the community nurse, the client, and the family. The findings indicate a need for additional supportive preparation strategies incorporated into nursing orientation and continuing education programs. Future research investigating agency culture and socialization would provide a more definitive survey of perceptions and competencies needed for role.
Zurmehly
Joyce
J
Wright State University Miami Valley College of Nursing and Health, Dayton, OH, USA. joyce.zurmehly@wright.edu
D000208:Acute Disease / Q000451:nursing; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002055:Burnout, Professional / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003152:Community Health Nursing / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004509:Education, Nursing, Continuing; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D024802:Nurse's Role / Q000523:psychology*; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009740:Nursing Staff / Q000193:education / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000523:psychology*; D015279:Organizational Culture; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D017009:Professional Autonomy; D011582:Psychological Theory; D036301:Qualitative Research; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012951:Socialization; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires