Purpose: Recently, with the increasing demand for a evidence-based practice model in the health care area, qualitative meta-synthesis studies that provide a comprehensive understanding of phenomena of interest has increased. This study was conducted to understand the concept of qualitative meta-synthesis and guide the application of appropriate methods. Methods: This study is a literature review to address and analyze concepts and methods used in qualitative meta-synthesis studies. Results: The definition and purpose of qualitative meta-synthesis, philosophical background, procedures and outcomes are described. And the meta-ethnography, which is widely applied, was described. In addition, grounded theory, critical interactive synthesis, and meta-study were briefly introduced. It is also desirable to evaluate the quality of the primary research paper by utilizing evaluation criteria and evaluation tools to select the primary research paper, which also affects the quality of qualitative meta-synthetic studies. It is necessary for the researcher to recognize the epistemological difference in qualitative meta-synthesis, to consider saturation of the primary research paper, and to minimize the decontextualization of the primary research paper. Above all, the creative interpretation of researchers should provide expanded knowledge and insights into the research area. Conclusion: By clarifying the purpose of qualitative meta-synthesis, the researcher should ensure justification for performing qualitative meta-synthesis. Researchers also need to make efforts to ensure methodological transparency in order to overcoming the limitations of qualitative meta-synthesis.

Purpose: This study was aimed to provide in-depth understanding of male nurses’ work adaptation experience and suggest future directions for nursing interventions for them by synthesizing individual qualitative findings. Methods: Qualitative meta-synthesis method suggested by Sandelowski and Barroso was utilized. A total of 6 qualitative studies’ findings were synthesized to describe male nurses’ experience of work adaptation in clinical settings. Results: The major task regarding male nurses’ work adaptation was ‘planting himself in the workplace.’ Its contextual and related factors to the task include: extraordinary choice for men, female-centered hierarchical work culture, gender difference vs. interindividual difference, stereotyped view on ‘male’ nurses, strengthening work identity of nursing profession, and dim future even after many years of experience. Conclusion: The findings illuminated the necessity of orchestrated efforts from both female and male nurses to form work environments overcoming gender bias and promoting adaptation of male nurses in clinical settings.