Professional Autonomy of Nurses: A Qualitative Meta‑Synthesis Study
Abstract
Background: Autonomy is the main element of professional practice in nursing. However, despite the
many studies conducted on nursing autonomy, this concept is not fully understood and a comprehensive
explanation of this concept in nursing is necessary. Meta‑synthesis offers a way to increase the
understanding of this concept using existing research findings. Thus, the present study aimed to
explain the concept of professional nursing autonomy.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative
meta‑synthesis was conducted based on a modified version of Noblit and Hare’s meta‑ethnography
approach and qualitative studies on the concept of nursing autonomy published in databases such
as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, SID, IranMedex, Magiran, and ScienceDirect in
the past 15 years (2003–2018).
Results: Thirteen articles that reported the experiences of nurses
regarding professional autonomy were included in the research. Based on the meta‑synthesis of
findings, the final interpretation of the professional autonomy of clinical nurses was presented in the
three themes of professional competence, professional decision making, and professional interactions.
Conclusions: According to the results, the concept of professional autonomy is a developmental
achievement based on patient‑based professional competence along with self‑reliance to provide the
best care plan for the promotion of patients’ health through the professional decision making and
professional interactions with other professional team members.
Keywords
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