Migrating registered nurses in the UK: Black and minority ethnic overseas nurses' perspectives
International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance
ISSN: 0952-6862
Article publication date: 24 July 2007
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the study is to explore, describe and develop a greater understanding of overseas Black and minority ethnic nurses' experiences of, as well as the impact of, their experiences on the quality and service delivery in the UK's NHS.
Design/methodology/approach
Phenomenology was adopted to explore overseas nurses' experiences. Twelve face‐to‐face interviews were completed and all participants involved were interviewed in their homes. Participants originated from Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.
Findings
Findings revealed five themes such as building ties, reflecting on experience, moving on, reduced confidence and lack of support.
Practical implications
Despite negative experiences, participants indicated that time working in the NHS was useful and contributed towards their development. In recruiting and retaining overseas nurses in the UK NHS, it is important to address their needs – demonstrating NHS commitment to a diverse workforce with ultimate effects on patients' care.
Originality/value
This article shows that some overseas nurses are unhappy in the clinical environment and as a consequence they decide to seek alternative workplaces where they feel that they may be valued.
Keywords
Citation
Alexis, O. and Vydelingum, V. (2007), "Migrating registered nurses in the UK: Black and minority ethnic overseas nurses' perspectives", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 20 No. 5, pp. 441-452. https://doi.org/10.1108/09526860710763352
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2007, Emerald Group Publishing Limited