Experiences of Community Health Nurses in the Delivery of Healthcare Services to the GIDA Population
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22970319Keywords:
community health nurses, experiences, GIDA Population, healthcare servicesAbstract
The research study described the experiences of community health nurses in delivering healthcare services to Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) population. Also, the research aimed to inform current practitioners, aspiring community health nurses, local health units, and the Department of Health. Utilizing a qualitative narrative inquiry approach, 16 community health nurses from a municipality in Quezon Province underwent semi-structured face-to-face interviews. The findings revealed four themes regarding their experiences – adapting to new roles, meaningful work despite hardships, physical demands, and having purpose and passion to help. The challenges they encountered revealed themes such as geographic barriers, mobility issues, financial constraints, inaccessible healthcare services, limited experienced healthcare professionals, inclement weather conditions, long travel time, and supply shortages. Additional themes concerning their coping strategies include personal motivation and commitment to service, support system and community appreciation as sources of strength that the local government support through communication and coordination and being resourceful. Furthermore, themes from nurses’ perceived roles include healthcare provider, advocate for health equity, health educator, and community health and program implementer. Based on these insights, the researcher developed a journal guide entitled “Community Health: Shaping Stories, Shaping Lives,” which compiles narratives of experiences, challenges, coping strategies, and professional roles. This guide aims to serve as a reflective and practical tool for community health nursing practice in GIDA settings.
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