Abstract
Purpose : This study identified the goals and skills of public health nurses working in rural districts of Japan during the post-war period and before its rapid economic growth (circa 1945-1970). Method : Ten public health nurses who had worked during these years in rural districts voluntarily agreed to a semi-structured interview. The interview focused on the content and goals of their nursing care. Data were analyzed qualitatively. Result : Public health nurses' goals comprised five categories: (1) establishing a presence in the community; (2) developing action-strategies; (3) triaging to save the lives of rural residents; (4) stimulating behavioral change to save residents' lives; and (5) establishing new behaviors to save residents lives. The final goal of public health nurses 'to save residents lives' was inductively derived from their work. Their skills comprised twelve subcategories with their core skill being, "working to change the traditional practices." Other skills were specific to the situation of that post-war period. Conclusion : These findings contribute to the understanding of a method of study and a model of public health nursing practice that may be applicable currently, for nurses in similar rural districts.
