Abstract
The number of home visits carried out by public health nurses (PHNs) has been decreasing. As a result, concern has focused on PHNs' declining ability to understand their clients. Therefore, the present study was conducted in order to clarify PHNs' recognition of home visits and factors to influence. Subjects were 7 backboned PHNs. Data collected during focus-group interviews were analyzed using inductive and descriptive methods. Using constructive conceptualization, data were classified into the following 6 themes : "Individual PHNs' recognition of home visits," "Significance of home visits," "Actual conditions during home visits," "Atmosphere of PHNs' colleague," "Atmosphere of their places of work," and "Continuing education after entry into practice." PHNs recognized the significance of home visits : However, their feelings became negative while conducting actual home visit activities. PHNs occasionally worried about the significance of home visits and their ability to provide adequate care during home visits. The following themes were identified as influencing PHNs' recognition of home visits : "Actual conditions during home visits," "Atmosphere of PHNs' colleagues," "Atmosphere of their places of work" and "Continuing education after entry into practice."
