Post-traumatic growth among emergency nurses after COVID-19 in Shanghai, China: a qualitative study

Objectives This study aims to investigate the post-traumatic growth of emergency nurses (ENs) in Shanghai, China, in 2022 following the COVID-19 pandemic.Design A phenomenological qualitative research approach was employed, with 17 ENs being interviewed between July and August 2022. Data collection was conducted through semistructured, in-depth interviews, and data analysis was carried out using the Colaizzi's seven-step analysis method.Setting A third-level hospital in Shanghai.Participants A total of 17 ENs were interviewed through face-to-face, semistructured, in-depth interviews.Results Three main themes and eight subthemes were extracted from the data: (a) stress, (b) restructuring and (c) growth.Conclusion Significant stress was imposed on ENs by the Shanghai COVID-19 pandemic, but cognitive restructuring was successfully undergone by them, leading to the experience of growth. It is recommended that post-traumatic growth levels be enhanced through professional psychological counselling and tailored support measures for different stages.