The Experience of China-Educated Nurses Working in Australia: A Symbolic Interactionist Perspective

Abstract

Background and PurposeTransnational nurse migration is a growing phenomenon. This study explored the experiences of China-educated nurses working in Australia.DesignUsing a constructivist grounded theory method, 46 in-depth interviews were conducted with 28 China-educated nurses in two major cities in Australia.ResultsThe core category emerged was “reconciling different realities”. Three phases of reconciling were conceptualised: realising, struggling, and reflecting. Realising refers to an awareness of the discrepancies between different realities. Struggling reflects the dilemma of the “middle position” and how being situated as “the other” is experienced. Reflecting is the process of making sense of the experience and rationalising the gains and losses associated with immigration.ConclusionsThis study produced a theoretical understanding of the experience of China-educated nurses working in Australia. The findings not only inform Chinese nurses who wish to migrate but contribute to the implementation of more effective support services for immigrant nurses.

Lived experiences of international operating room nurses in organ procurement surgery: A phenomenological study

“…Some participants expressed a wish to seek emotional support from nurses with similar cultural backgrounds or experiences, as they felt it would be easier to express feelings and be understood by them. This finding which was similar to other studies (Kishi, Inoue, Crookes, & Shorten, ; Yi & Jezewski, ; Zhou, ). From a cultural aspect, they also felt that other international nurses could understand their beliefs and perceptions of organ donation better.…”

“…Culture has a strong influence on a person's beliefs, values, and behaviors, such as communication styles, interactions with other people, and ways to seek support (Williamson, ). In relation to seeking support, international nurses reportedly feel less stressed about seeking help and support from other overseas nurses with similar experiences and backgrounds (Taylor, ; Zhou, ). Furthermore, different cultural and religious beliefs might also affect international nurses' values and practices in dealing with dying patients.…”

Foreign educated nurses’ work experiences and patient safety—A systematic review of qualitative studies

“…(2014)YYYYYYYYYYHigh5 Xiao et al. (2014)YYYYYUYYYYHigh6 Zhou (2014)YYYYYYYYYYHigh7 Alexis (2013)YYYYYUYYYYHigh8 Lin (2013)YYYYYYYUYUModerate9 Wheeler et al. (…”

Immigrant nurses’ perceptions on cultural differences‐based job concerns: A phenomenological study in Shanghai China

“…Additionally, immigrant nurses felt out of place when local nurses used the Shanghai dialect during handovers or daily talks. The inability to speak out reinforces the stereotype that immigrant nurses are shy and tend to remain silent or run away during interactions owing to the fear of being ridiculed (Zhou, ). Thus, it is essential to conduct a dialect‐training programme for immigrant nurses to help them feel more accepted at work and avoid misunderstandings (Rodriguez et al., ).…”

“…Moreover, the nurses reported that it was impossible for them to return to their hometown immediately to take care of their parents if they fell ill, which was another source of sadness and guilt (Table 4). (Zhou, 2014). Thus, it is essential to conduct a dialecttraining programme for immigrant nurses to help them feel more accepted at work and avoid misunderstandings (Rodriguez et al, 2014).…”