J Korean Acad Soc Nurs Educ.  2025 Feb;31(1):53-64. 10.5977/jkasne.2025.31.1.53.

Clinical nurses’ experience of participating in a career ladder system: A qualitative study using focus group interviews

• Kim Ms
• Noh Aj
• Jung Ys
• Lee Hj
• Lee Ke

• KMID: 2567052
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5977/jkasne.2025.31.1.53

Abstract

Purpose
The career ladder system is a pivotal strategy for securing excellent nurses. The aim of this study is to understand hospital nurses’ experiences of participating in the career ladder system and to explore the essence of this system.
Methods
In February 22 to March 3, 2022, nurses employed at a general hospital in South Korea were selected for this study using snowball and purposive sampling. Data were collected from interviews with three focus groups, the compositions of which are as follows: group 1, 6 participants; group 2, 5 participants; and group 3, 6 participants. All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and subsequently analyzed using qualitative research methods.
Results
The following six categories were derived under the overall theme of “the arduous journey to discovering a nurse’s true name”: (1) rites of passage to becoming the ideal nurse; (2) unexpected challenges in the promotion preparation process; (3) biased criteria for evaluating nursing competencies; (4) unclear changes in roles and perceptions after promotion; (5) self-discovered pride and fulfillment as a nurse; and (6) the unspoken struggles of evaluators.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that the career ladder system fosters nurses’ professional growth and self-actualization. However, for effective implementation, nurses’ deep understanding and systematic management of the career ladder system are essential. This study offers valuable insights and benchmarks for healthcare institutions aiming to adopt the system.

Keyword

Nurse clinicians; Career mobility; Qualitative research; 임상간호사; 경력관리; 질적 연구