Abstract:
Recognizing various aspects of the self-efficacy concept in a specialized field like intensive care units (ICUs) helps nurses to improve the quality of care in the ICUs. A qualitative content analysis study was conducted in 2018 at East Gilan hospitals of Guilan province, northern Iran, to explain the nurses' perceptions of care management self-efficacy in coronary care wards. Purposeful and theoretical sampling was done to achieve data saturation. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in the coronary care units and concurrent data analysis was performed according to the suggested steps of Lundman and Graneheim (2004). The following main themes and sub-themes were extracted through the data analysis: self-efficacy decline (time constraint, high work pressure, emotional stresses, loss of motivation); care development (experience-based care, knowledge-based care, and personal capability); and organizational challenges (weak management, unavailable physician). Findings of the present study indicated that a decrease in nurse's self-efficacy and a weak care management as a result could be significantly prevented by setting a precise plan and nurse participation in appropriate training courses. Respecting the aforementioned point, constant development of knowledge and experience alongside recruitment of supportive and reachable supervisors and physicians can be effective in improving nurses' efficacy.
