NURSES’ WORK PROCESS IN A HOSPITAL IN SPAIN: EMPHASIS ON THE TECHNOLOGIES OF CARE

Abstract

This descriptive and exploratory study with a qualitative character aimed to investigate the work process of the nurses in a University Hospital in Murcia, Spain. Eight nurses participated, who undertook care and management activities. The information was obtained in the period November 2011 – January 2012 through self-observation and description, by the nurses themselves, in relation to their understanding of their work process. The texts produced were sent to a group of researchers by email and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis, with the following themes emerging: the importance of end of shift handover as a technology of care, and actions of the nurses with views to the development of a care technology. It was evidenced that the nurse functions as a cornerstone in the work process, taking on responsibilities in the search for technologies for carrying out the work.

Keywords

• Work
• University hospitals
• Nursing
• Technology