Qualitative Meta-synthesis

The final synthesis included 11 qualitative articles representing 141 nurses. The included studies produced 41 unequivocal findings that were synthesized into four themes and 12 subthemes. Each synthesised finding receives a CERQual confidence rating of high, moderate, low, or very low, accompanied by justification. The synthesis draws on thematic analysis, meta-ethnography, and grounded theory including the constant comparative method and hierarchical theme development. Thematic synthesis follows Thomas and Harden's three-stage method conducted within ATLAS.ti software. Coding memos and reflexive memos document methodological decisions and support analytical transparency throughout the synthesis. Quality appraisal results directly inform the weighting of evidence in synthesis, with higher-quality studies receiving greater interpretive importance. Findings may be stratified by institutional setting, mentorship type, gender, or academic level. The search covered six databases from inception through 14 December 2024.