Experiences of growth among nurses caring for children with life-limiting conditions: insights from a narrative review.

BACKGROUND

Caring for children with life-limiting conditions (LLCs) is emotionally and existentially demanding for nurses. While much research emphasises distress, burnout and moral challenges, less attention has been focused on the potential for personal and professional growth resulting from these experiences. This narrative review synthesises qualitative research on personal and professional growth among nurses caring for children with LLCs.

METHODS

A narrative literature review was conducted across Medline, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO and PubMed (2005-2025). The review included qualitative and mixed-methods studies focusing on nurses' growth experiences in caring for children with LLC in various settings. Data were extracted and analysed inductively using thematic analysis, supported by narrative synthesis. Methodological quality was appraised using the critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) tool.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies from diverse global contexts were included. CASP appraisal indicated moderate-high quality across included studies. Six themes and thirteen subthemes reflected multidimensional growth, encompassing existential and life perspective changes, emotional and psychological development, professional identity, relational enrichment, meaning-based, and spiritual and transcendent transformation. Growth often emerged implicitly, rather than as the primary focus of included studies. The findings resonate with established theoretical frameworks, highlighting growth as both an outcome of adversity and as embedded in caring relationships and reflective learning.

CONCLUSION

Nurses caring for children with LLCs undergo multidimensional growth that enhances well-being and strengthens the quality of care they provide. Supporting these processes through reflective practice, education and institutional strategies may foster resilience, improve retention and elevate the quality of paediatric palliative care.