Table 3.

Example of data analysis

Meaning unit	Code	Subcategory	Category
A1, A2: ‘I was unaware of the extensive responsibilities involved in the operating theatre setting, and the adaptation process proved to be more prolonged than anticipated.’ A7, A8: ‘The intensive nature of role transition in anaesthesia primarily stems from limited clinical exposure during training. Many practitioners either had minimal departmental exposure or lacked any placement experiences, necessitating a comprehensive learning process from the foundational level.’	Prolonged role transition and challenges in professional adaptation	Challenges in professional role adaptation	Characteristics of new nurse anaesthetists
B2: ‘Nurse anaesthetists are expected to acquire comprehensive anaesthesia knowledge while maintaining clinical proficiency, inevitably leading to heightened professional anxiety due to the substantial workload and performance expectations.’ A2, A4: ‘ I am experiencing significant career uncertainty, primarily due to the specialized nature of this field, which makes it challenging to envision clear professional development path-ways.’	Excessive workload and confusion over career plans lead to high levels of stress	Anxiety
A4: ‘During the initial phase of my practice, the most challenging aspect involved the administration of intravenous indwelling needles. The inability to successfully establish intravenous access constitutes a critical emergency, particularly when dealing with conscious patients. You must immediately reassure the patient and promptly communicate with the supervising anaesthetist.’ B2, B4: ‘ A notable trend among new nurse anaesthetists appears to be suboptimal communication proficiency.’	Untimely and poor communication at work	Lack of communication ability