Early Adaptation of Newly Recruited Filipino Nurses in Singapore: A Qualitative Inquiry

Introduction: Nurse migration is well-established, yet most research focuses on Asian nurses migrating to Western countries. Singapore’s multicultural context, with its large international nursing workforce from the Philippines, offers an intra-Asian perspective. This study examined the early adaptation of newly recruited Filipino nurses in Singapore. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in a medical institution. Thirteen nurses were interviewed. Data were thematically analysed. Results: The nurses navigated Singapore’s multicultural society to overcome the sociolinguistic challenges. They remained grounded by staying connected to their community and building connections at work. Relearning their skills and rediscovering a new approach using advanced medical technologies enabled them to adapt at a different level. Discussion: The nurses encountered cultural, linguistic, and practice-related challenges but employed diverse strategies to enhance adaptation. It underscores the need for strengthened institutional orientation and integration programmes.