Problems and underlying causes of nurses working in the field of triage: A case study

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this research is to reveal the problems experienced by nurses working in the emergency department triage area and the underlying causes of the problems. Method: The research was created in a qualitative design and was carried out using a holistic single case design, one of the explanatory case study designs. The universe of the research was composed of nurses working in the Adult Emergency Service of Akdeniz University Hospital. The research sample was determined by criterion sampling, one of the sampling methods for qualitative research. In-depth interviews were conducted with a total of 16 participants, 9 women and 7 men. In addition, a focus group discussion was held with 4 participants. The data obtained were evaluated with content analysis, thematic analysis and metaphors. Results: As a result of the content analysis of the data obtained from the opinions of the participants, a total of 5 main themes and 34 sub-themes, namely "obligation", "knowledge and experience", "experienced problems", "reasons of the problems experienced", "effects on daily life" and "problem solutions" has been reached. In addition, metaphors and data from the focus group interview were examined. Conclusion: The research revealed the problems experienced by nurses working in the emergency department triage area and their views on the underlying causes of the problems. In addition, it gives information about the views of nurses on triage, their perceptions of triage skills and competencies, the effects of working in the field of triage on their daily lives and their views on solving the problems experienced. Key words: triage, triage nurse, problems in triage