Qualitative Research on Experiencing Difficulties in Roles of Nurses Working at Nursery Schools: Impacts of the Spread of COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to clarify the sense of difficulty in the roles of nurses working at nursery school.

Method: We conducted an anonymous self-administered survey with open-ended questions to nurses working for nursery schools in “A” Prefecture.

Result: Nurses felt, as “the sense of difficulties in roles of nurses regarding children,” “immature actions for infection prevention,” “Inadequate infection control measures” and “influences on growth and development of children.” Additionally, as “the sense of difficulties in roles of nurses regarding parents and other guardians,” “difficulties to request home nursing” and “insufficient understanding of parents and other guardians regarding the disease and its infection control measures.” Moreover, “insufficient understanding of nursery teachers regarding the disease and its infection control measures” and “lack of coordination between nursery teachers and nurses” were perceived as “difficulties with nursery teachers.” As “the sense of difficulties in roles of other nurses,” “infection control measures that they did not have confidence in” and “unable to exert their nursing expertise” were provided.

Conclusion: It is important to reinforce training for nurses and nursing teachers working at nursery schools and to strengthen the coordination with nursery teachers, parents, and medical institutions.