ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The objective was to explore ICU nurses' experiences of caring for non-sedated, critically ill mechanically ventilated patients, when following a study protocol as part of a clinical trial. DESIGN: The study had a qualitative design with twelve nurses participating in two focus groups. The interviews were analysed using a thematic approach. FINDINGS: One overall theme emerged, "Cautious optimism", which suggests positive experiences but with a negative undertone. The most remarkable experiences were related to caring for the patient, but there were some disappointments with regard to the interprofessional teamwork. Three subthemes were identified: 1) Excitement and uncertainty 2) Inspiring but demanding nurse-patient relationship, and 3) Teamwork or working against the tide? CONCLUSION: The main findings reflect the remarkable and positive aspects of caring for awake and involved mechanically ventilated ICU patients, but also how nurses found it demanding to follow a weakly implemented study protocol that sometimes resulted in deviations from their nursing ethical standards of care. A more strategic implementation plan for the study and improved interprofessional teamwork might have improved their experiences.
