A grounded theory of the oral histories of retired nurses : becoming a Royal Jubilee Hospital School of Nursing graduate between 1926 and 1962
Date
2003
Authors
Hobson, Cheryl Ann
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Abstract
This grounded theory of the oral histories of seven retired Royal Jubilee Hospital School of Nursing graduates explores the meaning they made of their intense experiences of becoming nurses. They reminisced, during unstructured interviews, about their three year period of living in nurses' residence between 1926 and 1962. Belonging to the sisterhood was the central theme that emerged from the data, and this connection of students to each other was vital to the development of a strong nursing self. It lasted a lifetime. Sisterhood processes played a vital nurturing role in cushioning the student from the harsh realities and hierarchical pressures of demands layered on them. It also supported their venting strategies, releasing pressures for the students' mental health and survival. The consequence was the development of a strong nursing self, a novice graduate who was able to graduate confidently and seamlessly. The sisterhood supported and allowed the fledgling nurse to cope with the stressors of becoming an RJH graduate nurse.