Elizabeth Sloand1, Grace Ho2, Joan Kub2. 1. School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA. esloand1@jhu.edu 2. School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of volunteer nurses after the Haiti earthquake, January 2010. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study design using in-depth interviews focuses on experiences of 12 American nurse volunteers who served in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. METHODS: Semistructured interviews were conducted in person or by phone using an interview guide. The interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Data analysis was assisted using NVivo9. FINDINGS: Six themes emerged: initial shock, relentless work, substituting and making do, questioning, systems building, and transitioning back. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Nurses who are interested in volunteering after a disaster can expect the experience to be overwhelming and will require them to exercise great flexibility, creativity, and strength in their nursing practice. Nurse volunteers can expect a rewarding experience that will likely change their perspective on nursing work and personal life.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of volunteer nurses after the Haiti earthquake, January 2010. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study design using in-depth interviews focuses on experiences of 12 American nurse volunteers who served in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. METHODS: Semistructured interviews were conducted in person or by phone using an interview guide. The interviews were audio-taped, transcribed, and checked for accuracy. Data analysis was assisted using NVivo9. FINDINGS: Six themes emerged: initial shock, relentless work, substituting and making do, questioning, systems building, and transitioning back. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Nurses who are interested in volunteering after a disaster can expect the experience to be overwhelming and will require them to exercise great flexibility, creativity, and strength in their nursing practice. Nurse volunteers can expect a rewarding experience that will likely change their perspective on nursing work and personal life.