Emergency nurses' perceptions of their roles and practices during epidemics: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: although emergency nurses have a pivotal role in the public health response to epidemics, little is known about their responsibilities and practice in terms of epidemic management. AIMS: this study aimed to explore how emergency nurses understand and perform their professional roles and practice during epidemics. METHODS: a qualitative descriptive study design was used. Data were collected from 24 participants through semistructured interviews and subjected to thematic analysis. FINDINGS: the analysis yielded two overarching themes: expansion in the practice of emergency care; and the altered role of emergency nurses. CONCLUSION: emergency nurses perceive their practice during the management of an epidemic expanded in that they shouldered a greater responsibility in the control of infectious diseases. This expansion led to role ambiguity among them.