Exploring the Integration Experiences of Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) within the Canadian Health Care System

Abstract

Abstract The number of internationally educated nurses (IENs) in Ontario is growing. Given the predicted nursing shortage due to an aging nursing workforce and a short supply of nursing graduates, this trend will probably continue as international recruitment to meet nursing demands in Canada continues. Current Canadian research that examines IENs’ experience as they integrate into their workplaces is scarce. With an increasingly diverse Canadian and patient population due to rising immigration trends, a workforce that addresses the needs of the diverse patient population is valuable. Therefore an in-depth understanding of IENs’ experience, their contribution to nursing practice, and their distinct role in promoting health care access to Canada’s diverse population is necessary. A qualitative study using descriptive phenomenology was used to explore the integration experiences of eleven IENs within the Ontario, Canada health care system. Interviews were conducted to examine their experience of integrating into Canadian work settings. Thematic analysis informed by a descriptive phenomenological lens was used to uncover the essence of the IEN’s integration experience. The findings are categorized into five major themes including: Relationship with colleagues; Professional knowledge and experience; Organizational practices and work environment; Cross-cultural and linguistic competence; and IENs as an asset to nursing and patient care. These findings were nested within an overarching theme of resilience and an intrinsic motivation to establish their credibility as competent nurses. These findings highlight IENs’ unique integration experiences, and contribute to Canadian literature in the field, especially in terms of an understanding of IENs’ unique contribution to nursing in Canada. Implications and recommendations for nursing with regards to practice, education, research, and administration are presented.