gms | German Medical Science

Background: Many countries are experiencing the effects of nurse shortages and resort to recruitment of Internationally Qualified Nurses (IQNs) [1]. Such often come from highly skilled nursing positions with years of experiences; and on arrival to the host country, certain skills are not recognized and utilized [2]. Such issues could lead to reduced job satisfaction and might significantly impact on their quality of life. Against this backdrop, further knowledge and a better understanding of experiences, motivations and connections these nurses bring with them is necessary to better understand how to utilize their potential.

Objectives: To explore the individual human, social and motivational capital of IQNs seeking work opportunities as qualified nurses in Malta.

Design and methods: A qualitative design using phenomenography was used. Following ethical approvals, data was collected through three semi structured focus groups with 16 participants attending a pre-registration nurse bridging program for non-EU citizens delivered at the Malta College of Arts Science and Technology.

Due to COVID19 social distancing measures interviews were conducted online using Microsoft Teams.

Results: Four major categories emerged: a) experiences at country of origin and overseas; b) training and education; c) taking the decision to leave home country and d) support from local community and colleagues.

Conclusions: IQNs already possess a considerable degree of Career Capital and need be taken into consideration when it comes to deployment and work opportunities in order to preserve skills and enhance job satisfaction and retention in Malta.

Competing interests: The author declares that he has no competing interests.