Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of nurse volunteers caring for children after the Haiti earthquake in January 2010. DESIGN AND METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study using in-depth interviews focuses on the experiences of 10 nurse volunteers. RESULTS: Four themes emerged: hope amid devastation, professional compromises, universality of children, and emotional impact on nurses. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Nurses who volunteer after natural disasters have rich personal and professional experiences, including extremes of sadness and joy. Nurse volunteers will likely need to care for children. Nurses and humanitarian agencies should prepare for the unique challenges of pediatric care.
Sloand et al. (Mon,) studied this question.