Explaining the Experiences of Operating Room Nurses From Surgery of Patients With Blood-Borne Diseases: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Background: Operating room nurses are exposed to blood-borne diseases, so it is important to examine their experience to prevent possible injuries. Based on this, the present study was conducted with the aim of explaining the experience of operating room nurses in the surgery of patients with blood-borne diseases. Methods: The research design is a descriptive phenomenological study. Sampling was performed purposefully, and participants were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected using semi-structured oral interviews and then analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. Results: In this study, data were obtained through interviews with 15 operating room nurses. As a result of data analysis, 5 main themes and 16 sub-themes were identified, including a tense role, respect for patients’ privacy, functional compatibility, desire to have an experienced team, and the heroic feeling. Conclusion: Nurses experience negative and positive emotions while attending the surgery of the mentioned patients. In order to increase the quality of care and reduce burnout of nurses, these feelings should be paid attention to.