• Helen Cox, Jayne James, and Julian Hunt.
• University of the West of England, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Glenside Campus, Blackberry Hill, Bristol, BS16 1DD, UK. helen3.cox@uwe.ac.uk
• Intensive Crit Care Nurs. 2006 Oct 1; 22 (5): 283-93.

BackgroundThe concept that critical care is a service rather than a location has been increasingly highlighted. However, there is limited information regarding nurses' perceptions of caring for critically ill patients outside of high dependency areas.AimThe aim of this study was to explore the factors that influence the experiences of trained nurses caring for critically ill patients within a general ward setting.MethodThis was an exploratory, descriptive study combining an interview and questionnaire methodology. A purposive sample of seven trained nurses reflecting a range of grades and experience, from one medical ward were selected. A semi-structured interview combined with an attitudinal scale was utilised.ResultsFollowing analysis five key themes emerged: clinical environment, professional relationships, patient assessment, nurse's feelings and educational needs.ConclusionWhilst the findings of this study cannot be generalised, analysis of the data has provided an insight into the complex factors that effect care delivery. In order to respond to this study's findings, there are resource implications. Educational requirements and communication skills will need to be developed.

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