Environmental diseases, recognition for care: A qualitative study of nurses' perceptions.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to investigate hospital nurses' perceptions of illness due to environmental exposures. DESIGN: A qualitative exploratory study, designed in accordance with the specified reporting guidelines for qualitative research. SAMPLE Nurses working in Italian hospitals. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, then evaluated using the framework analysis methodology. Data collection was from January to June 2022 and analysed from July to September 2022. RESULTS: Forty-two nurses were interviewed. Data analysis revealed three themes 1) the concept of disease in relation to environmental exposure; 2) the dangers of chemical and physical substances; 3) environmental changes cause concern and a sense of helplessness for the future. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest the need for specific training on topics related to environmental disease types, environmental exposure, preventive measures, health promotion, and environmental impact to support professional development and support nurses in the management of this important aspect of health care.