Purpose: The purpose of this study was to understand the lived experiences of nurses working
in a predominantly rural care setting. In order to meet the needs of an aging population with
multiple comorbidities, it is essential for leaders to understand the strategies to recruit and retain
highly qualified nurses in CAHs settings.
Sample: Nine registered nurses working both full and part time with one to 40 years of
experience participated in the interview process that queried their attitudes regarding working in
a rural setting.
Findings: Five major themes included self-reliance, social responsibility, empathy, isolation,
and emergent leadership.
Conclusions: The findings from this study support the notion that there is not a universal
response to the lived experience of nurses working in CAHs. The unique needs of each nurse
should be considered to enhance the practice environment and diminish experiences that result in
feelings of isolation. Isolation impacted the five themes; if nurses are not able to maintain current
knowledge and skills in a supportive environment, their self-reliance is compromised.
Keywords: Rural, Nursing, Self-reliance, Emerging leader
