유방암 전담간호사의 직무경험: 질적 내용분석

Abstract

Purpose: Our study aimed to explore and describe the work experiences of breast care nurses (BCNs) to understand their roles, challenges, and requirements in the current healthcare system. Methods: We performed qualitative content analysis of data collected from focus group interviews with eight BCNs working in tertiary and general hospitals in South Korea. We recorded, transcribed verbatim, and used qualitative content analysis to analyze the interviews. Results: The two main themes produced from the analysis were ‘Clinical practitioner as a nurse practitioner’ and ‘Nurse practitioner as a marginal man.’ The first theme dealt with patient-centered nursing practice, coordinator role within the medical team, and ongoing professional development. The second theme included unstructured scope of practice, medical personnel as shadow workers, and nurses on the borderline. Conclusion: By delivering systematic, targeted education, coordinating care, and continuously expanding their expertise, BCNs provide essential services to breast cancer patients. However, they face significant challenges related to workload, ambiguity in role objectives, and lack of legal recognition. It is pivotal to establish clear job descriptions, legal status, qualifications, and proper workforce management systems to support BCNs and to optimize their contributions to breast cancer care.