Experiences, emotions, and expectations of nurse mothers during the COVID-19 process

Abstract

Purpose: This study was designed to investigate the life experiences, emotions, and expectations of nurse mothers (NMs) during the COVID-19 process. Design and methods: A phenomenological approach was used in this qualitative research. The study was carried out with 18 nurses who worked in a hospital, had at least one child in the 0–18 age group, and agreed to participate in the study. Study data were collected through individual in-depth interviews and analyzed by using the content analysis method. Results: The analysis of the findings related to the experiences, emotions, and expectations of NMs during the COVID-19 process yielded three main themes, namely, difficulties experienced, emotions experienced, and coping. Conclusions: Nurse mothers should be supported mentally during the pandemic period so that they can maintain a healthier relationship with their children. Practice implications: When we consider that NMs have experienced negative emotions in the COVID-19 period, investigation of the problems they have experienced during the pandemic, and the situation they have been in and the development of strategies and coping methods to better manage the process will support NMs. © 2022 Elsevier Inc.