Author(s)

Mitsuki Yoshimoto^1*, Rie Wakimizu²

¹Master Program in Nursing Science, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
²Department of Child Health Care Nursing, Division of Health Innovation and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify the perceptions that determine the nursing practices of nurses working in NICU and GCU to protect the privacy of the affected children and their families, and the perceptions that arise in relation to their practices. Further to obtain information on current issues and future suggestions for nursing practice. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six nurses of Clinical Ladder I or higher currently working in the NICU and GCU, and content analysis was conducted. Result: The study identified five categories, 16 subcategories, and 63 codes: “keeping in mind to act in accordance with the characteristics of the NICU and GCU”, “trying to secure a space only for the affected children and families depending on the situation”, “feeling the need for consideration for the affected children and families”, “feeling puzzled and frustrated through the relationship with families”, “having a dilemma between the environment they want to realize for the affected children and families and the fact that it cannot be realized”. Conclusion: In considering nursing care in NICU and GCU, including consideration for privacy, the need to reflect on daily nursing care and share it with other staff members was suggested.

Privacy, Family Nursing, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Growing Care Unit, Environment

Yoshimoto, M. and Wakimizu, R. (2023) Nurses’ Perception of Privacy in the NICU and GCU: A Qualitative Descriptive Study. Open Journal of Nursing, 13, 113-129. doi: 10.4236/ojn.2023.132008.