Imposter phenomenon

This is a summary of the peer-reviewed article: Imposter phenomenon: recognising and addressing it
among nurses by Vanessa Coelho

The article provides an in-depth look at the prevalence and effects of imposter phenomenon in the nursing profession.

By addressing imposter phenomenon comprehensively, the nursing profession can enhance the well-being of its workforce and improve the overall quality of patient care.

Key points

1. Definition and prevalence

• Imposter phenomenon is characterised by feelings of self-doubt, inadequacy and fear of being exposed as a fraud despite evident success and competence.
• It can affect nursing students, newly registered nurses and even experienced practitioners.

2. Effects on nurses

• Imposter phenomenon can lead to psychological distress, anxiety, burnout and decreased job satisfaction.
• It may negatively affect performance, leading to errors and reduced quality of patient care. It can also hinder professional growth and career development.

3. Causes

• High expectations, perfectionism and the demanding nature of nursing may contribute to imposter phenomenon.
• Organisational culture, lack of support and inadequate recognition can also exacerbate the feelings associated with imposter phenomenon.

4. Recognition and assessment

• Awareness of imposter phenomenon signs is crucial for early intervention.
• Tools such as the Clance Imposter Phenomenon Scale can help in identifying affected individuals.

5. Interventions and strategies

• Individual level – encourage self-reflection, mindfulness and cognitive-behavioural strategies.
• Organisational level – create supportive work environments, mentoring programmes and professional development opportunities.
• Educational level – incorporate imposter phenomenon awareness into nurse education curricula and training programmes.

6. Role of leaders

• Leaders and managers have a crucial role in recognising and addressing imposter phenomenon among their staff.
• They should foster a culture of openness, provide regular feedback and celebrate achievements.

Recommendations

For nurses

• Engage in professional development and seek support from peers and mentors.
• Practice self-compassion and recognise personal achievements.

For organisations

• Implement regular training sessions on imposter phenomenon.
• Develop policies that promote mental well-being and reduce stigma around psychological issues.

For educators

• Integrate information about imposter phenomenon into nurse education programmes.
• Encourage open discussions about mental health and professional challenges.

Disclaimer
This summary was generated using an AI tool (ChatGPT) and checked via in-house editorial processes. While we strive for accuracy and quality, please note that we cannot guarantee this summary will be entirely error-free. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the use or interpretation of this content and recommend referring to the original article.

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