TABLE 1.

Themes and sub‐themes for nurse executives responding to the COVID‐19 pandemic

Rapid, relentless, around the clock action	Nursing's multifaceted contribution	Unintended consequences	Silver linings
Insufficient preparation	Leadership activities	Experience of addressing the pandemic	Expanded ways of working
Extensive information and communication	Flexible work approach and practices	Mix of emotions	Strengthened clinical practice
Expanded working relationships	Knowledge development and dissemination	Difficult personal and work conditions	New opportunities
Constant change	New models of care	Negative outcomes	Deepened relationships
Removal of organizational barriers	Workforce numbers