The social processes that emergency nurses use to achieve sustainability: A constructivist grounded theory

Aim: To examine the experiences of emergency nurses and develop a substantive theory that describes the processes they use to support or prevent sustainability in their nursing practice. Design: Constructivist grounded theory. Methods: Between February 2018 and January 2019, observations and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 29 emergency nurses. Data underwent constant comparison, and coding was performed in three phases: open, focused, and theoretical, employing constructivist grounded theory. Additionally, some situational analysis mapping was undertaken and integrated as a method to explore the broader context affecting nursing practice. The study achieved theoretical saturation and rigour was ensured through evaluations of credibility, transferability, and confirmability. Results: A substantive grounded theory was constructed to describe the basic social process of ‘Achieving Personal and Professional Sustainability’ with subprocesses that included ‘Driving forces’, ‘Developing and using armouries’, ‘Balancing work-life’, and ‘Making emergency work effective’. This theory delineates two phases, ‘exploration and establishment’ and ‘maintenance’, and two key properties: ‘Constructing and evolving professional identity’ and ‘Perceiving and reshaping the meaning of effective work and care’. The theory also highlights the dynamic interplay of individual, social, and institutional elements. Conclusion: ‘Achieving Personal and Professional Sustainability’ is important for emergency nurses to sustain themselves personally and professionally in their work. Impact Statement: This research has substantial and global impacts. Emergency nursing can use this information as a guide to better understand strategies for both personal and professional sustainability. Policymakers may use the findings to foster a supportive work environment and enhance nurse well-being. Implementation of recommendations can lead to improved patient care outcomes. The methodological approach offers potential for future research, positively impacting emergency nursing practice and workforce sustainability worldwide. Reporting Method: Reporting adheres to EQUATOR's COREQ guidelines for qualitative studies. Patient or Public Contribution: No patient or public contribution.