Abstract
Objective : To describe the difficulties experienced by public health nurses in supporting elderly patients with tuberculosis and to investigate more effective measures for future action. Methods : The subjects were 19 public health nurses from a health center in Prefecture A who had been working under the TB Control Law since 2005, the year in which the Tuberculosis Prevention Law was revised, and an important period for public health intervention. We conducted semi-structured interviews "about the difficulties experienced [by them] in providing support" during the initial stage of tuberculosis treatment for elderly patients. We analyzed data based on verbatim records and field notes. Results : We classified difficulties into two categories: "prejudice of elderly tuberculosis patients and their families towards tuberculosis causing refusal of public health nurse support" and "the difficulties of linking support with medical or nursing facilities." Discussion : These two categories might be related to the image that the elderly have about tuberculosis, to physical changes with aging, and to the support provided by long-term care insurance. To provide assistance to these patients, the expertise of public health nurses must be improved through "understanding the culture around the disease" and "applying the latest specialist knowledge and health technologies." In addition, "understanding and cooperation between the community and personnel involved in patient medical care and welfare" must be strengthened for effective care.
