Exploring nurses’ experiences and perceptions of mentorship programs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: an interpretive phenomenological analysis

Mentorship programs have emerged as critical interventions to support and retain nursing staff within complex healthcare environments. Although mentorship benefits are well documented globally, there remains limited qualitative evidence on how nurses in Saudi Arabia’s multicultural healthcare context experience mentorship relationships. This study aimed to explore nurses’ experiences and perceptions of mentorship programs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The objectives were to identify perceived benefits and challenges of mentorship, examine cultural influences on mentorship relationships, and develop evidence-based recommendations to enhance mentorship programs. A qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 17 registered nurses recruited through purposive maximum-variation sampling. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase reflexive thematic analysis, implemented iteratively within a Heideggerian interpretive framework. Four major themes emerged: [1] Professional growth and development [2], Emotional support and psychological well-being [3], Cultural navigation and adaptation, and [4] Organizational integration and belonging. A unique conceptual insight, “supported vulnerability,” was identified, illustrating how mentorship fosters both emotional openness and professional confidence in challenging clinical environments. Mentorship programs have significant influence on nurses’ professional identity, emotional resilience, and cultural integration. Recommendations include establishing structured, culturally responsive mentorship programs with protected time and mentor preparation.