Work Experiences of Delivery Room Nurses: A Phenomenological Study

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study aimed to understand meaning and essentials in work experiences of delivery room nurses. METHODS: A phenomenological perspective was used for this qualitative research. Ten delivery room nurse with more than 3 years of work experience participated in this study. Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews with the nurses, between December 2012 and April 2013. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's method. RESULTS: Nine theme clusters and four categories emerged from the data as follows 1) factors influencing career decision-making, 2) gap between reality and expectations, 3) difficulties with working in the delivery room, and 4) motivation to work in the delivery room. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this study, strategies to improve working environment of the delivery room nurses are necessary. Also, better policy are required to firmly establish the role of the delivery room nurses' role as recognized professionals.