Understanding the Lived Experiences of the Foreign Trained Nurses Working In New Castle County, Delaware

There is a growing population of foreign nationals who have entered the USA legally in the recent past. Among these immigrants are licensed nurses from their countries of origin who seek to work in the USA environment. These nurses have varying professional experiences. However, it is unknown how these nurses transition into the USA healthcare system. The purpose of this study examines the lived experience of foreign trained nurses. The participants in the study were seven foreign trained nurses who were working in New Castle County, Delaware. The participants were interviewed to learn their thoughts about their lived experiences and the challenges they faced as they transitioned into the USA healthcare system. An interview was conducted on the lived experience. Results of the study have implications in creating awareness to the employers, higher education, and nurse educators for formulating professional development programs to assist the foreign trained nurses in having a smoother transition. Further the study is to highlight the role the foreign trained nurses play in the USA healthcare system so that evidence based implementation programs may be developed to assist the foreign trained nurses in having a smoother transition into the American work place.