The experiences of emergency nurses working during situations of crowding

Background: While the causes and consequences of patient crowding in emergency departments are clearly defined, little is known about the experiences of emergency nurses working in these conditions. The aim of this study was to develop a greater understanding of emergency nurses’ experiences working during situations of crowding. Methods: Fourteen emergency nurses were individually interviewed. Data was analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach. Results: Five major themes were identified: challenges of the ED environment, impacts of the environment on practice, professional impacts, impacts on person, and teamwork: the silver lining. Participants described crowding as occurring on a consistent and regular basis; this had both negative and positive impacts upon their professional and personal lives. Discussion: Emergency nurses are persistent in their desire to provide quality patient care, despite situations of crowding. Future implications involve identifying positive practice supports and providing education on self-care practices to foster positive personal health outcomes.