The Nature and Coping Processes of Moral Distress Among ICU Nurses

Key Points

• The aim is to clarify the nature of moral distress experienced by ICU nurses and their coping mechanisms.
• Qualitative analysis of interviews with ICU nurses.
• Assessment of moral distress and coping strategies used by participants.
• Identification of themes related to ethical dilemmas faced in clinical practice.
• Nurses report high levels of moral distress in response to ethical dilemmas.
• Common coping strategies include seeking support from colleagues and reflective practices.
• Findings indicate a need for improved institutional support to help nurses manage moral distress.