Difficulties Encountered by Surgical Intensive Care Unit Nurses in Postoperative Patient Monitoring and Their Coping Strategies: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Surgical intensive care unit (SICU) nurses undertake multidimensional and complex responsibilities in the process of postoperative patient care and monitoring. Understanding the challenges encountered within these responsibilities is crucial for improving care quality. Additionally, recognising nurses' coping strategies helps to identify their professional support needs.

Aim: This study aimed to identify the difficulties encountered by nurses working in SICUs in the management of postoperative patients, as well as the strategies they use to cope with these difficulties.

Study design: This qualitative study was structured using a phenomenological design. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted with nurses working in SICUs in various provinces across Turkey between 15 October and 15 November 2024. The interviews were carried out using a 'Semi-Structured Interview Form' During the reporting process, the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines were followed, and the data were analysed using the conventional content analysis method.

Findings: The study was conducted with 20 nurses. Two main themes and eight subthemes were identified. The first main theme was the difficulties encountered in postoperative patient care; under this theme, the subthemes were defined as difficulties related to the surgical process, communication, workload, time management and psychological factors. The second main theme was the strategies used by nurses to cope with difficulties; within this theme, the subthemes included teamwork and collaboration, time management, stress management methods, professional development and knowledge updating.

Conclusions: Surgical intensive care unit nurses encounter multidimensional difficulties during the postoperative patient care process, which can negatively impact both the quality of care and professional well-being. Establishing supportive mechanisms at the institutional level is essential for maintaining high-quality patient outcomes and promoting the well-being of nurses in coping with these difficulties.

Relevance to clinical practice: Effective coping strategies such as interdisciplinary collaboration, prioritisation of care, emotional regulation and continuous professional education enhance nurses' resilience and strengthen the quality of nursing care.

Keywords: coping behaviour; perioperative nursing; intensive care unit.