Peak and Nadir Experiences and Their Consequences Described by Pediatric Oncology Nurses

Abstract

Pediatric oncology nurses experience role-related stressors, some of which are inherent to the speciality, and their consequences. Despite these difficulties, nurses continue in the specialty. One variable that helps to explain their continued commitment is "meaning," or what pediatric oncology nurses find to be most significant and satisfying in their roles. One technique for determining meaning in a role is to inquire about the peak (significant and positive) and nadir (significant and negative) role-related experiences and the consequences of both kinds of experiences. The purpose of this study was to identify the peak and nadir experiences of pediatric oncology nurses and the short- and long-term consequences of those experiences.

Using an interview format that consisted of four open-ended questions and a convenience sampling plan, five nurses interviewed 26 nurses from one pediatric cancer center and 38 nurses from a national sample. The interviewers completed an initial training session on interviewing and repeated that training two more times during data collection. Written or taped oral consent was obtained at the time of each interview. Using a content analytical technique (Krippendorff, 1980), four nurses independently coded each interview. Agreement ratings ranged from 75% to 100% per coded theme for an overall agreement level of 92%. Training for the coding process occurred initially and periodically throughout the analysis period.

Fifteen different themes for peak experiences were identified, the majority of which reflect the nurses' experience with patients dying, or with patients recovering and living normal lives, or with the close relationships that develop between nurses and patients. Multiple short- and long-term consequences were identified and included changes in (1) values (becoming less judgmental), (2) behaviors (giving more empathic care), and (3) perspective (accepting limitations of care). Twenty-three different nadir themes were identified. A shared characteristic of several of these themes is the nurses' regret over a perceived inadequacy in handling a situation. Another common element is witnessing patient suffering and feeling unable to adequately relieve the suffering or provide comfort to the patient. The short-term consequences of nadir experiences tend to be negative and include guilt, anger, or dread. The long-term consequences tend to be positive and similar to the long-term consequences of peak experiences.

Study findings indicate that pediatric oncology nurses do find meaning in their roles and that those who continue in the speciality are able to experience positive long-term consequences. Study findings will be used to develop a new scale to measure role-related meaning and to develop interventions designed to assist nurses in finding meaning in their roles even during particularly stressful periods.