AIM: To identify factors protecting and hindering the well-being of critical care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. BACKGROUND: The unique work challenges of critical care nurses can undermine their professional and mental well-being
as evidenced by the prevailing literature on burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen these professionals on the front lines and has raised many questions about professional well-being. Identifying the factors that protect and hinder the well-being of critical care nurses would help to develop the strategies necessary to reduce worrying phenomena associated with professional malaise. EVALUATION: A systematic review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane, PsycINFO, and Web on Science. KEY ISSUES: After full text analysis, 25 papers were included in the current systematic review. Factors influencing the well-being of critical care nurses have been grouped into "Protective" and "Hindering." CONCLUSIONS: This review shows that critical care nurses' well-being is influenced by factors like personal resilience and supportive work environments, which enhance their experience. Challenges include sociodemographic issues and the COVID-19 pandemic's impact. Addressing these factors is crucial for their well-being and the effectiveness of healthcare systems. IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: The well-being of nurses is intricately linked to the quality and security of patient care, ultimately influencing clinical outcomes. This review delves deeply into the multifaceted factors that affect the professional well-being of critical care nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recognizing these elements is critical for directing health policy toward the development of initiatives that bolster healthcare workers' welfare. Prioritizing the professional well-being of nurses is imperative, as it is fundamental in mitigating the increasing inclination towards job turnover, a challenge that is profoundly impacting the healthcare sector.