| Abstract [eng] |
Justification of the work. The professional adaptation of advanced practice nurses is a critical period in the career of a nursing professional, during which a variety of challenges are encountered, which may lead to job dissatisfaction or even to leaving the profession. Although this phenomenon has been studied in various countries around the world with the aim of improving the integration of advanced practice nurses into the healthcare system, there are no studies on this topic in Lithuania. The aim – to examine the professional adaptation of advanced practice nurses in the first year of practice. The objectives: 1. To investigate the clinical and interpersonal skills of advanced practice nurses that determine their professional adaptation in the first year of work. 2. To identify measures that can improve the professional adaptation of advanced practice nurses. 3. To identify the professional satisfaction of advanced practice nurses in their first year of work. The research method – a qualitative study realised by a systematic analysis of the scientific literature and semi-structured interviews with 12 nurses in the first year of their advanced nursing qualification practice. Interview conducted between March and June, the data processed using inductive content analysis. Results: During the professional adaptation, the advanced practice nurses emphasised the skills of personal health assessment, clinical decision-making, application of theoretical knowledge in practice, and organisation of clinical work, as well as interpersonal skills of cooperation, leadership, and self- confidence. The process of post-occupational adaptation of advanced practice nurses is positively influenced by the openness of the managers of personal health care institutions to innovations in the field of healthcare. The professional satisfaction of advanced practice nurses in their first year of work is enhanced by professional autonomy and recognition, meaningful participation in personal healthcare, broad career prospects, a supportive emotional atmosphere, effective collaboration, and optimal workload. Conclusions: 1. The professional adaptation of advanced practice nurses is determined by a combination of clinical and interpersonal skills. Skills in personal health assessment, clinical decision- making, and the application of theoretical knowledge in practice are complemented by skills in clinical organisation, effective communication, conflict management, and leadership. 2. The smoothness of the professional adaptation of advanced practice nurses depends not only on individual effort, but also on a structured adaptation system that includes managerial involvement in the integration of advanced practice nurses, formal mentoring, and a supportive organisational culture that fosters the availability of material resources, collaboration, and professional development. 3. The professional satisfaction of advanced practice nurses in their first year of work is determined by a complex combination of autonomy, professional recognition, opportunities for development, supportive working conditions, and emotional environment. |
