Exploring the core competencies of operating room nurses in the maritime disaster emergency medical teams based on the Iceberg Model: a qualitative study

As the development and utilization of the ocean have progressed through a new historical period, human-ocean practice activities have become more intense, sea-related public affairs have become increasingly complex, maritime conflicts and natural disasters have occurred frequently, and maritime rescue has become increasingly important. The level of core competence of operating room(OR) nurses in maritime disaster emergency medical teams (MDEMTs) directly affects the efficiency of rescue, but there is a lack of research on the core competence of OR nurses in MDEMTs. This study aims to explore the competencies of OR nurses in MDEMTs based on the Iceberg Model. Between November 2024 and January 2025, purposive and snowball sampling techniques were combined to conduct interviews with 12 nurses, 4 surgeons, 1 anesthesiologist, and 3 care managers involved in related roles. All participants were members of MDEMTs who had previously taken part in a maritime exercise or rescue operation. Thematic analysis followed Colaizzi’s seven-step method, based on data collected through semistructured interviews. Eleven generic core competencies for operating room nurses and eleven competencies specific to the MDEMTs were identified through thematic analysis, collectively forming the core competency framework for OR nurses in MDEMTs. Based on the Iceberg Model, these competencies were categorized into four domains: professional knowledge, practical skills, comprehensive competence, and professional and personal traits. OR nurses in MDEMTs are required to demonstrate a wide range of core competencies, and competency-based training should be prioritized to meet the evolving demands of maritime rescue operations.