Unveiling The Experiences of Operation Room Nurses on Ethical Issues: A phenomenological study in Adama Hospital Medical College, Ethiopia, 2022

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> Background Operating room nurses face frequent ethical issues and as key members of health care team must go beyond mere awareness of ethical principles to make ethically sound decisions in complex and challenging environment. Immediate resolving of these issues helps mitigate moral distress and its associated symptoms, such as anxiety and decreased job satisfaction, while enhancing patient care. A deeper understanding of ethical issues in the OR will help tailor interventions and policies to address real-world challenges, improve patient care, and better support healthcare professionals. Objective This study explored the lived experiences of operating room nurses with ethical issues at Adama Hospital Medical College in Adama, Ethiopia, in 2022. Method A qualitative study using the hermeneutic phenomenological method was conducted at Adama Hospital Medical College from March 15, 2022 to April 15, 2022. Eighteen nurses were selected as participants using maximum variation purposive sampling. The data was collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews. The data was then imported into Atlas Ti 8 software to be coded and categorized. To ensure trustworthiness, the basic principles were applied. Data analysis was conducted based on the Van Manen method and the results were summarized using thematic analysis. Results The study reveals two main themes and eight sub-themes regarding ethical issues faced by operating room nurses. The main themes were issues related with safeguarding patient dignity and professional commitments, while sub-themes include breaches of dignity, untruthful communication, overcrowded ORs, patient expectations, lack of informed consent, and breach of sterilization standards. Conclusion Upholding ethical principles and standards are critical for improving patient care and fostering positive relationships. Concepts like devotion to professional commitment, patient dignity, and collegial respect are crucial for participants. Addressing ethical concerns and ensuring compliance will enhance healthcare delivery in perioperative settings.