Phenomenological Exploration of Clinical Nurse Specialists’ Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic to Prepare for Future Crises

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in the nursing workforce needing attention before future crises. Clinical nurse specialists (CNSs) led teams, provided clinical expertise for policies and patient care, and adapted rapidly; however, the pandemic experiences of CNSs are not understood. Objective: We aimed to explore the lived experiences of Michigan’s CNSs throughout the pandemic. Methods: Using a descriptive phenomenological design, semi-structured, one-on-one interviews were conducted between January and April 2021. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed to allow for rigorous analysis. Results: Nine CNSs participated. Three themes emerged from the data. Within each of those 3 broad themes were 3 to 4 subthemes. Theme 1: nurses adapting to a crisis mindset consists of constant stress and work, rapid and unpredictable change, adapting with the science, and feelings toward the public. Theme 2: CNSs adapting to the crisis in unique ways is comprised of bearing extra emotional weight, losing a sense of control, role representation and clarity, and pride and responsibility. Theme 3: CNSs as holistic beings consists of coping mechanisms, support systems, and persistent life demands. Conclusions: The stress experienced by CNSs was distinct from the stress felt by other health care professionals as they were expected to lead teams through 3 spheres of impact. The magnitude and uniqueness of their stress identifies a priority for adequate preparation of CNSs and highlights an opportunity for specific areas of improvement prior to any future crises.