Promoting nursing competence in municipal healthcare services: An interview study of experienced nurses’ perceptions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore factors in the municipal workplace environment that can facilitate experienced nurses in promoting their professional competence. This is of particular importance when critically ill patients are discharged from hospital. We interviewed nine nurses who had more than five years’ experience in the Norwegian municipal healthcare services and analysed data using qualitative content analysis. We found that the informants have to cope with situations for which they have not been adequately prepared. Two factors in their workplace environment influenced the promotion of their professional competence in such situations: access to knowledge and information, and supportive collegial relationships. Experienced nurses are an important resource for information and support. However, the findings also suggest that nurses at all levels of competence are dependent on working environments that promote a high standard of nursing.