Motivations, Capacity Preparations and Development of Specialist Nurses: A Descriptive Phenomenological Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT Aim To explore the motivations, capacity preparations and career development plans of specialist nurses (SNs) to provide insights for promoting further specialisation in nursing and enhancing the quality of nursing services. Design A descriptive phenomenological qualitative study was conducted. Methods The study was conducted from April to May 2024 at a tertiary hospital in China. A purposive sampling method was used to recruit 35 nurses from various departments of the hospital who had completed specialist nursing training and obtained the necessary qualifications. These SNs participated in face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews. Results Three overarching themes and ten subthemes were extracted. (1) career choices for SNs, included the following subthemes: ‘Social support’, ‘Specialist nursing is charismatic’, ‘Demand for specialized nursing’ and ‘Possessing specialized nursing qualities’. (2) career preparations for SNs, comprised subthemes such as ‘Professional preparation’, ‘Quality requirements’ and ‘Qualification requirements’. (3) career development for SNs, encompassed subthemes like ‘Personal growth’, ‘Team building’ and ‘Disciplinary developments’. Conclusions This study explores the motivations and experiences of SNs' career transitions, highlighting social support, the appeal of specialty nursing, industry demand and professional competence. Governments should provide resources for career preparation, while nurses should enhance their knowledge and skills. Becoming a SN marks a new career phase, requiring skill improvement, teamwork and discipline involvement. The study offers insights for general nurses transitioning to specialty nursing and informs SNs' career planning. Implications for the Profession These findings provide important guidance for the career development of nurses as specialists, highlighting the crucial role of government, hospitals and nursing advocates in fostering their professional growth. Reporting Method The study was reported following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Checklist. Patient or Public Contribution No patient or public contribution. Impact Statement (1) Impact on patients: this study underscores the significance of specialised nursing care and its potential to improve patient outcomes through enhanced expertise and individualised care. (2) Impact on clinical practice: by identifying the motivations and preparations for SNs' career transitions, the research emphasises the importance of specialised knowledge and continuous professional development to enhance clinical practice and quality of care. (3) Impact on education: the study advocates for more comprehensive educational programs and continuous professional development for SNs, ensuring they stay updated with the latest practices and research. (4) Impact on social and economic issues: Promoting specialty nursing can help address healthcare challenges, particularly with aging populations and chronic diseases, improving healthcare efficiency and reducing costs through targeted care. Implications for Practice/Policy (1) Establishing a standardised training and certification system is essential to ensure the professionalism, consistency and quality of specialist nursing practice. (2) Developing well‐defined career pathways with research opportunities, leadership training and skill enhancement programs fosters SNs' professional growth, and strengthens their ability to adapt to evolving healthcare demands. (3) Enhancing professional autonomy and interdisciplinary collaboration will maximise the impact of SNs in improving patient care and driving healthcare innovation.