Journal of Education and Health Promotion

Exploring the occupational health needs of oncology nurses: A qualitative study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

. Mozhgan Soheili
. Fariba Jokar 1
. Maryam Eghbali‑Babadi 2
. Mehran Sharifi 3
. Fariba Taleghani 4

1 Department of Medical Education, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

2 Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

3 Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Cancer Prevention Research Center, Seyyed AlShohada Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

4 Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although the work environment of oncology nurses is highly complex and
challenging, their occupational health needs are scarcely studied. This study aimed to explore the
occupational health needs of oncology nurses.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This qualitative descriptive study was conducted in 2018–2019. The
participants consisted of 52 oncology nurses and 11 other key informants. They were chosen from
eight cancer treatment centers in different cities of Iran. Data were collected through semi‑structured
individual interviews and analyzed using conventional content analysis.
RESULTS: The occupational health needs of oncology nurses were grouped into three main
categories included needs for self‑care, development of professional competency, and a safe and
healthy work environment.
CONCLUSION: The work environment of oncology nurses needs to be optimized in terms of physical,
psychological, organizational, and sociocultural conditions. Furthermore, the necessary measures
should be taken to encourage oncology nurses to implement self‑care, thus creating the preparedness
to face the challenges of the workplace by developing their professional competencies.

Keywords

Occupational health
oncology nursing
qualitative research
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Journal of Education and Health Promotion
Volume 11, Issue 5
June 2021
Pages 1-7

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