Stakeholders’ perspectives on internationally educated nurse workforce and workplace integration pathways in Ontario: Qualitative descriptive study

Background. Integrating internationally educated nurses into the Canadian healthcare system is a multifaceted process involving numerous stakeholders who can influence their successful integration. Since the registration examination changes in Canada, in 2015 and amidst evolving registration requirements, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, little is known about stakeholder perspectives. This study aimed to describe stakeholder views on internationally educated nurse integration processes and the strategies to streamline these processes.  Methods. This study employed a qualitative description approach, using semi-structured one-on-one virtual interviews with six stakeholders. Data collection and analysis were completed concurrently, guided by the Braun and Clark framework and the Fourfold Model of Acculturation Theory. Results. Two main themes emerged from data analysis: stakeholder insights during workforce and workplace integration. Stakeholders valued the internationally educated nurses’ expertise in Canadian healthcare and were committed to improving the licensing process to accelerate integration. Conclusion. This study highlights stakeholder perspectives on the integration pathways of IENs into the Canadian healthcare system. Collaboration among stakeholders, including IENs, is essential to streamline integration processes. cesses.