Lived experience of the warrior nurse as an advisor

Purpose: Described the lived experience of U.S. warrior nurses who served as advisors to host nation officials in Afghanistan. Method: The phenomenological approach was applied to obtain comprehensive descriptions from 10 warrior nurses. The modified Stevick–Colaizzi–Keen data analysis method was utilized as the researcher had performed in the role of interest. Discussion: Textural themes included (a) challenging role, (b) challenging place, and (c) changed. One of two structural themes representing the core traits included four subthemes (a) be careful, (b) be powerful, (c) be courageous, and (d) be resourceful. The other structural theme representing the skin or outer traits included four subthemes (a) be impeccable, (b) be malleable, (c) be caring, and (d) be resilient. Conclusion: The findings provided validation of previous information and new insight for nursing and military professions in terms of advancement of the practice of military nursing and enhancing the understanding of personnel who participate in the complexities of health care transformation. The need to apply the information gained in this study to enhance role player preparations and support was confirmed.