Exploring home-based care nurses' mindset for nursing practices: a phenomenological study

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Management
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Home nursing is vital for current and future healthcare needs.
• Nursing practice involves technical knowledge, rational procedures, and diverse skills.
• Understanding nurses' work context is essential for effective practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the characteristics of home care nursing practices.
• To understand how home care nurses solve tasks within their specific context.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory qualitative study with a descriptive phenomenological approach.
• Fifteen in-depth interviews with nurses across four Norwegian municipalities.
• Analysis followed stepwise inductive methods, adhering to COREQ guidelines.

Main Results:

• Three key patterns emerged: 'To be vigilant,' 'To be an all-rounder,' and 'To act with independence.'
• Nurses demonstrated sensitivity, contextual awareness, and professional independence.
• Practices were analyzed through the theoretical framework of 'clinical mindlines.'

Conclusions:

• Nurses' vigilance and contextual insight are critical for practice and task-solving.
• Home care nurses must manage complex situations and exercise professional judgment.
• Health policy should integrate nurses' practical knowledge and 'mindlines' alongside standardized guidelines.