A qualitative study on perception of worthlessness in nurses

This study aims to explore in depth how the experiences nurses encounter throughout their professional lives lay the groundwork for the perception of worthlessness, and how this perception is reflected in their individual and professional lives. In this context, the primary objective of the study is to understand the causes and consequences of nurses' perceptions of worthlessness and to develop solution-oriented recommendations to mitigate this perception. The study was conducted using a qualitative research method and employed a case study design. A semi-structured interview form was used as the data collection tool. Data were obtained through face-to-face interviews with 29 intensive care nurses working in a public hospital. The data collected from the interviews were analyzed using content analysis, and specific categories were created based on the common views expressed by the participants. As a result of the study, five categories were identified regarding how nurses define the perception of worthlessness. Among the most significant three findings were: "Being Ignored and Belittled," "Lack of Recognition or Reward," and "Humiliation and Psychological Violence." With respect to the causes of nurses' perceptions of worthlessness, eight categories were identified. Based on the data obtained, the most prominent and widespread category was "Psychological Violence." "Workload and Working Conditions" and "Professional Devaluation and Status Issues" were also among the other key categories. Regarding the effects of the perception of worthlessness on nurses, six categories were identified. The analysis revealed that the most significant findings included "Burnout and Loss of Motivation," "Negative Behavioral and Physical Reactions," and "Depressive Symptoms and Hopelessness." In addition, the impact of the perception of worthlessness on the profession and the institution was examined, resulting in the identification of three categories. Analysis showed that "Organizational Desensitization and Loss of Motivation," "Crisis of Professional Identity and Meaning," and "Deterioration in Organizational Functioning and Institutional Risks" were the most salient categories. Finally, based on the nurses' views on the measures to be taken or avoided in order to help them feel more valued within their institutions, seven categories were identified. Among the most prominent categories were "Management of Working Conditions and Workload," "Managerial Support and Humane Communication," and "Rest and Family Life." The findings of the study indicate that, despite the critical role nurses play in the healthcare system, they believe they do not receive the recognition they deserve. It is understood that this perception of worthlessness has a complex structure, rooted in numerous causes and leading to various consequences. In the long term, this situation appears to have the potential to negatively affect both nurses and the functioning of healthcare institutions. Based on the results obtained, it can be suggested that policies aimed at improving employee satisfaction should be developed and that awareness of this issue should be increased in order to reduce nurses' perceptions of worthlessness. The study is considered to have the potential to fill an important gap in the literature, particularly with regard to the nursing profession.