Perceptions of Nursery Center Nurses about Accepting Technology-dependent Children

Abstract

Background & Aims: Although the number of technology-dependent children has been increasing in Japan, it remains a challenge for these children to enter nursery centers and schools. This study aimed to clarify the perceptions of nurses at nursery centers in regard to accepting technology-dependent children.

Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted on five nursery center nurses who had experience accepting technology-dependent children. A qualitative descriptive design was used for the analysis.

Results: Nine categories depicting the nurses’ perceptions were generated: [technology-dependent and general children are both growing up while affecting each other], [I am convinced of my identity as a nursery center nurse], [Willingness to protect the rights of technology-dependent children and their families], [The existence of technology-dependent children gives me purpose], [Willingness to accept technology-dependent children positively], [The system for accepting technology-dependent children is insufficient], [Feeling the emotional burden of the delicate care required for technology-dependent children], [Difficulties involved in caring for technology-dependent children in environments that are different from hospitals], and [Feeling conflicted between ideal roles or beliefs and reality].

Conclusions: This study clarified the positive attitudes of nursery center nurses in regard to accepting technology-dependent children, as well as the challenges associated with establishing adequate policies and systems.