A qualitative study of Ghanaian pediatric oncology nurses’ care practice challenges

Abstract

Background Pediatric cancer is a global problem, and some studies have emphasized that nurses caring for these children experience work-related challenges. This has caused many children diagnosed with cancer to have a prolonged hospital stay and suffer unnecessary pain. However, there is insufficient documentary evidence on this issue. This study aims to explore and understand the challenges faced by pediatric oncology nurses in caring for children in Ghana. Methods An exploratory qualitative research design study was conducted from August 2019 to April 2020. The study was conducted at the pediatric oncology unit which is located at the Tamale Teaching Hospital (TTH), Ghana. The study was conducted among 14 Ghanaian pediatric oncology nurses who were purposively sampled. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed inductively using Elo and Kyngas content analysis approach. The criteria proposed by Guba and Lincoln were used to ensure the validity of the study. Results From the analysis of participants transcripts, eight subcategories emerged from two major categories. The subcategories were; time-consuming care, low job motivations, inadequate logistics, work stress, reduced labour force, low knowledge level, lack of teamwork and the perception of contracting cancer. Conclusions The results point to several organizational and personal constraints experienced by the nurses who work at the pediatric oncology ward. It is hoped that by addressing these challenges, it would lead to further improvement in the care that is provided to children with cancer. There is the need for the administrative managers of hospitals, government and other stakeholders to invest in human, material and financial resources for delivering childhood cancer care services.

Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on pediatric oncology providers globally: A mixed‐methods study

“… 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 These shortages contribute to high levels of burnout and attrition in LMICs, further diminishing the available workforce. 11 , 12 , 15 During the pandemic, lockdowns and restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of COVID‐19 led to widespread disruptions to pediatric cancer care. 16 , 17 Such adaptations presented new challenges for pediatric oncology providers.…”

Current Status of Pediatric Oncology Nursing in Africa: Perspective of African nurses of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP Africa)

“…The development of training programmes for specialization in pediatric oncology nursing on the African continent cannot be overemphasized in order to have competent specialists with better outcomes to care as was reinforced in the recent Lancet Oncology Commission on cancer in sub-Saharan Africa 30 . Having sufficient theoretical, and clinical experience and attitude can be significant in improving the morale of the nurses 31 . The 2019 Delphi survey following the 2019 SIOP Congress in Cairo, Egypt, further underscores the importance of training as revealed by general consensus on priority areas of education vital for nurses new to pediatric oncology nursing that was condensed into a 12-module curriculum framework.…”

“…. and lose sight of the holistic and human aspects of pediatric oncology nursing caring practice" (p. 7) 31 .…”

Current Status of Pediatric Oncology Nursing in Africa: Perspective of African nurses of the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP Africa)

“…The development of training programmes for specialization in pediatric oncology nursing on the African continent cannot be overemphasized in order to have competent specialists with better outcomes to care as was reinforced in the recent Lancet Oncology Commission on cancer in sub-Saharan Africa 30 . Having su cient theoretical, and clinical experience and attitude can be signi cant in improving the morale of the nurses 31 . The 2019 Delphi survey following the 2019 SIOP Congress in Cairo, Egypt, further underscores the importance of training as revealed by general consensus on priority areas of education vital for nurses new to pediatric oncology nursing that was condensed into a 12-module curriculum framework.…”

“…During the 2022 SIOP Africa Congress in Kampala, Uganda, a survey regarding impressions of nurses about pediatric oncology nursing in Africa demonstrated the holistic nature of nursing care for children with cancer and high level of commitment and motivation from nurses to meeting the care needs of their patients. Nukpezah et al stated that "…pediatric oncology nurses mustn't become task orientated… and lose sight of the holistic and human aspects of pediatric oncology nursing caring practice" (p. 7) 31 .…”