This study interpreted qualitative data to identify a constitutive pattern and relational themes that uncover the knowledge about intuition embedded in the experience and practice of nursing staff development experts. The deeper meaning and significance of intuition within the context of expert nursing staff development practice was examined. Heideggerian phenomenology served as the philosophical background; data were interpreted using Heideggerian hermeneutics. Ten staff development experts, who met established criteria, participated in this inquiry. Phenomenological interviews were taped, transcribed, and confirmed. A seven stage process guided the analysis and interpretation procedures.

The constitutive pattern discerned was "intuition as trusting the everyday whole-knowing of the inner voice." Data supported the recurrent return to this pattern, which was present in all interviews. Four relational themes were revealed which support the constitutive pattern. Themes include: (a) struggling to find the knowing: forming and informing intuition, (b) informed knowing about the possibilities, (c) listening to the moment: dwelling in the moment, and (d) transforming the dailiness of practice. A deep grasp of the complex and demanding nature of nursing staff development emerged through the narratives of experts during their reflections about intuition.

Results suggest work role competencies that may be useful for helping novice and experienced staff development nurses develop skilled practice. In addition, orientation and continuing education programs for staff development nurses will be informed by the pattern and themes revealed through this inquiry. Continued research and thought is invited to enhance and extend understanding of intuition and the shared practices and common meanings within nursing staff development.