Objective To explore the driving factors of self-transcendence in senior specialist nurses. Methods A total of 15 senior specialist nurses were interviewed on the motivation factors of self-transcendence, and the traditional content analysis method was used to summarize and refine the interview data. Results Two themes and 9 sub-themes were extracted, including internal driving forces (thought structure change, personality characteristics, goal orientation, feedback seeking behaviors, reflection and self-motivation) and external driving forces (team support, leadership authorization, exogenous pressure and social recognition). Conclusion The driving factors of self-transcendence in senior specialist nurses are various. It is recommended that nursing managers take corresponding measures, make full use of senior specialist nurses′ intrinsic motivation, and optimize external supportive environment to promote the construction of specialist nursing team.