Standing alone on the frontline. The meaning of being a nurse in the archipelago-A phenomenological hermeneutical study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to illuminate the meaning of being a nurse in the archipelago.

Methodological design and justification: A phenomenological hermeneutical design was applied, as there is a need to understand the lifeworld and the meaning of being a nurse in the archipelago.

Ethical issues and approval: Approval was granted by the Regional Ethical Committee and local management team. All participants provided consent to participate.

Research method: Individual interviews were conducted with 11 nurses (Registered Nurses or primary health nurses). The interviews were transcribed, and the text was analysed by means of phenomenological hermeneutical method.

Results: The analyses ended in one main theme: Standing alone on the frontline, and three themes: 1. Combating sea, weather and the clock with the sub-themes: Fighting to give care to patients despite harsh conditions and Fighting against time; 2. Standing firm but wavering with the sub-themes: Embracing the unexpected and Calling out for support; and 3. Being a lifeline throughout the entire lifespan with the sub-themes: Having responsibility for the islanders and Having an intertwined private and work life.

Study limitations: The interviews may be considered few, but the textual data were rich and assessed suitable for the analysis. The text may be interpreted differently, but we deemed our interpretation as more probable than others.

Conclusion: Being a nurse in the archipelago means standing alone on the frontline. Nurses, other health professionals and managers need knowledge and insight about working alone and the moral responsibilities thereof. There is a need to support the nurses in their lonely work. Traditional means of consultations and support could preferably be supplemented by modern digital technology.

Keywords: archipelago; phenomenological hermeneutical; primary health care; qualitative research; remote area; rural nursing.