Determining the Experiences, Feelings and Thoughts of Nurses Caring for Earthquake Victims: A Qualitative Study

Objective: This qualitative study was carried out to determine the experiences, feelings and thoughts of nurses caring for earthquake victims. Methods: This study was conducted with 29 nurses caring for earthquake victims between April and May 2023 in a private hospital that provides the largest tertiary healthcare service in Mersin province. Research data were collected using a semi -structured interview form and content analysis of the data was conducted. This qualitative study was reported using the "Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ)." Results: According to the results obtained from the study, the nurses' statements were collected in three main and ten sub -themes; experience, emotion and thought. In the theme of nurses' experiences; lost lives, the importance of life and holding on to hope; On the theme of nurses' emotions; experiencing sadness, despair, bittersweet happiness and stress; In the theme of nurses' thoughts; Sub -themes of professional satisfaction, defensive role and empathy were formed. Conclusion: In this study, it was observed that nurses caring for earthquake victims experienced many different experiences, emotions and thoughts together. It is recommended that managerial studies be carried out on providing psychological support to nurses.