2024 Volume 39 Issue 3 Pages 61-72
Introduction
Given the increasing number of foreign nationals residing in Japan, more opportunities are expected to provide nursing care for these residents in the home-based care setting. This study aimed to clarify qualitatively the difficulties and coping experiences faced by home-visiting nurses providing care to foreign nationals residing in Japan.
Methods
In this qualitative descriptive study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with home-visiting nurses providing care to foreign nationals residing in Japan.
Results
The study participants were 14 female home-visiting nurses aged in their 40s to 70s with 3-25 years of experience as a visiting nurse. Nine categories regarding difficulties and seven regarding coping with difficulties were identified from the interviews.
Conclusions
Home-visiting nurses reported facing difficulties in terms of language barriers, differences in religions and customs, the complexity of the Japanese medical and long-term care insurance system, and various aspects of life and mental support. However, home-visiting nurses could still provide care while respecting the feelings and demands of patients and their families. These findings may contribute to the development of more effective approaches to support home-visiting nurses providing care to foreign nationals residing in Japan.
