This study aims to understand the experiences of Brazilian nurse auditors in the practice of their profession, exploring the importance, challenges, rewards and strategies related…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to understand the experiences of Brazilian nurse auditors in the practice of their profession, exploring the importance, challenges, rewards and strategies related to the occupation.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a qualitative descriptive study conducted with 44 nurse auditors. An online, open-ended questionnaire was used. Thematic content analysis was performed.
Findings
Five themes were identified: (1) functions of a nurse auditor; (2) skills required for a nurse auditor; (3) learning to be a nurse auditor; (4) advantages of being a nurse auditor and (5) challenges faced by a nurse auditor. Also, a total of 16 subthemes were presented.
Research limitations/implications
The study critically examined essential aspects of auditing through the lens of nurse auditors, addressing a relevant topic. However, limitations must be acknowledged, including the use of self-report questionnaires, regional representation disparities, the scarcity of international articles on the topic and potential researcher bias.
Practical implications
The study underscores the importance of increasingly integrating nurse auditors into the workforce while emphasizing the need to enhance the capacitation of these professionals through theoretical and practical education. It highlights the significance of educating other multidisciplinary team members about the nurse auditor’s crucial role in fostering teamwork and ensuring the quality of healthcare services.
Originality/value
To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study conducted with Brazilian nurse auditors, exploring crucial aspects of auditing from the perspective of these professionals. Understanding the critical role of nurse auditors in maintaining and improving healthcare quality can enhance public trust in healthcare systems.