Nurses' care experiences with generation alpha based on Watson's human care theory

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Pediatric Care
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Generation Alpha represents a new demographic in pediatric healthcare.
• Understanding their unique needs is crucial for effective nursing care.
• Watson's Theory of Human Caring provides a framework for exploring nurse-patient relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore pediatric nurses' experiences and perspectives on caring for Generation Alpha.
• To analyze these experiences through the lens of Watson's Theory of Human Caring.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive phenomenological design utilizing Giorgi's five-stage method.
• Data collected via in-depth interviews and observations from 14 purposively selected nurses.
• Study adhered to Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines.

Main Results:

• Identified three main themes: facilitating curative care, barriers to curative care, and maintaining authentic care.
• Uncovered seven sub-themes related to nurses' views and care experiences with Generation Alpha.
• Highlighted the importance of establishing and maintaining a strong caring relationship.

Conclusions:

• Nursing care for Generation Alpha requires understanding and applying human caring principles.
• Nurses should be trained on Watson's Theory of Human Caring to enhance pediatric care.
• Findings can inform the development of effective nursing strategies and training programs for Generation Alpha patients.