The lived experience of haematology-oncology nurses

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to explore and better understand the lived experience of haematology-oncology nurses in Malta. This study utilised a qualitative approach with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) chosen as the research methodology. Four semi-structured interviews were carried out online, through the online platform Zoom. The participants eligible to participate were required to be over the age of eighteen, and needed to have experienced more than one year working in the field of haematology-oncology nursing. Recruitment was done through a local non-governmental organisation. From the analysis six super-ordinate themes emerged; Working in Haematology, The Effect of Human Touch in the Nurse-Patient Relationship, A Nurse Cannot Work Alone, Empowered as a Nurse, When it Gets Hard, and Protecting Oneself. The uniqueness of haematology through how it differs from any other area in oncology-nursing was brought to light through this study. Moreover, the holistic care provided by haematology-oncology nurses, as well as the deep bonds the nurses form both with their patients and their families were explored. This study underscored the relationships formed with the medical staff and the effects these alliances have on the participants. The results also touched upon the aspects of the job which bring the nurses satisfaction, as well as the psychological struggles they face, and their ways of coping. This study indicated the need for these participants to be given a voice. It also emphasised the need for more training and support amongst haematology nurses, mainly through more psycho-education and the further amelioration of the provision of psychological support.