Resilience in Intensive Care Unit Nurses: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Background: The intensive care unit environment exposes nurses to high-stress situations that potentially affect their mental and physical health. Resilience is a protective factor that can enhance the well-being of intensive care unit nurses.

Objective: To investigate the current evidence regarding resilience in intensive care unit nurses and identify factors that promote resilience.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was undertaken for primary research conducted between January 1990 and December 2022. The updated framework of Whittemore and Knafl was used as a guide. Studies were critically appraised for methodological quality by using the Johns Hopkins Nursing evidence-based practice appraisal tool.

Results: Twelve studies were included; most used quantitative methods to measure resilience. The findings indicate that intensive care unit nurses exhibit various levels of resilience, the literature contains inconsistencies about factors affecting resilience, and resilience protects nurses against negative psychological outcomes.

Discussion: Nurses' resilience levels should be regularly assessed to identify areas for improvement and gauge the impact of resilience interventions. By continuously monitoring and adapting support strategies on the basis of resilience changes over time, organizations can meet the needs of intensive care unit nurses.

Conclusion: More research is needed to comprehend the factors that impact resilience and devise interventions to boost resilience in intensive care nurses.