Issues And Challenges Faced By Female Nurses Regarding Unavailability Of Daycare Center In Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: The lack of daycare centers within hospitals is a significant issue with far-reaching consequences, particularly for female nurses, who make up a significant component of the healthcare sector. Eventually, the female nurses face a variety of challenges and issue due to the unavailability of the daycare for their children. Objectives: The study aimed to explore the issues and challenges faced by female nurses regarding unavailability of daycare center in hospital. Methodology: A Phenomenological qualitative study was carried out in Khyber teaching hospital Peshawar. Data was collected from a total of fifteen nurses based on data saturation. Purposive sampling method was utilized to include the participants in the study. Female Nurses having child/children and working in the Khyber teaching hospital were included in the study. The study was approved from ethical review board of Khyber medical university Peshawar and data collection permission was granted from hospital administration. All the selected participants were interviewed and data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: A total of five themes are extracted regarding issues and challenges faced by female nurses about unavailability of daycare center in hospital. These themes are Interruption in Work-Life balance, Destabilizing Mental and Physical health, need of organizational backup support, increasing job dissatisfaction and Attrition and Eroding quality of patient’s care. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study underscores the critical importance of recognizing and addressing the challenges faced by female nurses in healthcare settings due to the unavailability of onsite daycare centers. Healthcare institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders must take proactive steps to support their female nursing staff. By doing so, they not only enhance the well-being of these vital healthcare professionals but also contribute to a more efficient and compassionate healthcare system; ultimately benefiting both the workforce and the patients they care for.