The experiences of nurse practitioners providing health care to the homeless

Abstract

Purpose: Homelessness is a growing public health and social concern in our society. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to gain insight into the unique experiences of nurse practitioners (NPs) who provide health care to the homeless.

Data sources: Audio-taped, open-ended interviews were conducted with nine NPs from southeast and northeast Wisconsin.

Conclusions: Five themes and 13 subthemes emerged from the NPs' accounts. The main themes included: (1) why they do what they do; (2) a unique population with unique needs; (3) NP characteristics; (4) how the relationship develops; and (5) lessons learned: a relationship of reciprocity.

Implications for practice: Study findings will assist healthcare providers to gain insight into the experience of providing health care to the homeless and learn what it takes to become successful in such an important and much needed role.