BACKGROUND
Rural and remote areas rely heavily on registered nurses (RN)s for comprehensive health care provision, as these communities have less Medical Officers (MO)s and allied health professionals compared to their urban counterparts. This, in turn, makes retention of rural and remote nurses in the workforce critical. Limited research is available on the experiences, challenges and preparedness of RNs working in these areas. Therefore, to ensure comprehensive care is provided to people living in geographical isolated areas, we must first understand how RNs view their work environment.
AIM
The aim was to examine the experiences of RNs working in rural and remote facilities and determine the current skill requirements and preparation needed to work in this environment.
METHOD
Qualitative research design with data collected using semi-structure interviews. Data was analysed using content and thematic analysis.
RESULTS
A total of 23 RNs participated in the study including n = 9 cohort one (RNs that are new to working or have worked in rural and remote facilities within the last two years, and have had no specific emergency department training or worked in an emergency department) and n = 14 cohort two (experienced RNs working in rural and remote facilities in the roles of educators, clinical nurse consultants (CNCs), nurse managers (NMs) or nurse unit managers (NUMs) and directors of nursing (DONs). Emerging themes identified; a requirement for specific rural and remote orientation and education prior to starting work on the floor, support and mentorship for new RNs, education for metropolitan staff regarding staffing and challenges when transferring patients to larger facilities, burnout of senior RNs and community orientation and integration.
CONCLUSION
The rural and remote workforce is in crisis. New RNs feel isolated, unsupported and experience transition shock. Experienced RNs experience burn out from training new staff who turnover quickly, and then report a lack of education and training for their own development. There needs to be a focus on accessible and structured education, training, support and mentorship for all RNs working in rural and remote facilities.