Determinants and supporting factors for rebuilding nursing workforce in a post-disaster setting

Area of Science:

• Disaster recovery research
• Sociology of disaster
• Healthcare workforce studies

Background:

• Minamisoma City faced workforce shortages post-2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster.
• Evacuation decisions and return factors for residents remain understudied.
• Understanding these factors is crucial for rebuilding the local workforce.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify essential factors for rebuilding the workforce in a post-disaster setting.
• To analyze nurses' decisions regarding evacuation and return to Minamisoma.
• To understand the support needed for healthcare worker resettlement.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 25 nurses in Minamisoma.
• Interviews focused on reasons for evacuation and return decisions.
• Thematic analysis to identify key influencing factors and support needs.

Main Results:

• Family conditions, particularly having small children, were primary drivers for evacuation.
• Return decisions were influenced by children, livelihoods, job opportunities, and emotional attachment.
• Radiation risk was a less significant factor in evacuation and return decisions.

Conclusions:

• Family support, job security, and psychological support are vital for nurse retention.
• Addressing life situation factors is crucial for retaining healthcare workers post-disaster.
• Policy recommendations focus on parenting support and career development.