抄録
This study investigated the impact of prolonged, pandemic-related changes on public health nursing practicums
and the transition of new public health nurses (PHNs) into the workforce in Japan. A qualitative descriptive study
was conducted to explore the early practice challenges faced by four PHNs who graduated in March 2023 and had
10 months of work experience in municipal governments. Data were collected through a focus group interview and
analyzed using qualitative descriptive methods. Three major categories emerged: (1) limited expertise and professional confidence; (2) difficulties in building rapport with clients; and (3) insufficient experience in interprofessional collaboration and communication. Participants reported that reduced face-to-face practicum opportunities hindered the development of essential communication skills and the confidence required for frontline practice. While alternative practicum formats can serve as temporary solutions during public health emergencies, they cannot fully replicate the complexity of real-world interactions. These findings underscore the importance of preserving community-based experiential learning opportunities in public health nursing education, even during crises. This study emphasizes the necessity for resilient curricula that safeguard interpersonal learning and interprofessional collaboration as fundamental educational components.
