Pediatric nurses’ experience as novices or experts in neonatal resuscitation – an abductive qualitative analysis based on a national competence description

Background Neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) requires a skilled team including pediatric registered nurses (pRNs) who must manage complex, high-stress situations. This study aimed to describe pRNs' experiences of neonatal CPR and to interpret these in relation to two levels of clinical expertise, novice and expert, using Benner's framework. Design and methods A qualitative secondary analysis included two strategically selected novices and two experts from three level III and IV NICUs in Sweden. Data were analyzed using abductive content analysis framed by the Swedish competence description for pRNs and Benner's nursing theory. Results Novices relied on guidelines and familiar team members to manage stress and ensure patient safety. Experts demonstrated confidence in team dynamics, anticipatory decision-making, and mentoring behaviors. Conclusion The findings highlight differences in how novice and expert pRNs experience neonatal resuscitation and emphasize the importance of mentorship and structured support for professional development.