EXPERIENCES OF SELECTED NURSES IN NUEVA ECIJA MEDICS HOSPITAL: CHALLENGES AND REWARDS

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the challenges and rewards experienced by selected nurses at Nueva Ecija Medics Hospital. Filipino nurses have expressed dissatisfaction with their compensation, often feeling that their efforts are inadequately rewarded. According to Tuazon (2023), the lack of stable and financially viable employment opportunities locally has driven many Filipino nurses to seek work abroad, as entry-level salaries in the Philippines are significantly lower compared to those offered overseas. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological research approach to investigate the challenges and rewards experienced by selected nurses at Nueva Ecija Medics Hospital. The study also examined the nurses’ years of experience, coping strategies, and the most common challenges they encounter in their profession. Focus group discussions were conducted with selected nurses in District IV, Nueva Ecija, who had at least three (3) years of hospital work experience. Data were gathered using semi-structured interviews and audio recordings. Thematic analysis was applied to analyze the collected data. The interviews were conducted between February and March 2024. The findings revealed that most participants had three (3) to six (6) years of professional nursing experience. One of the most significant challenges identified was low salary compensation. Despite these difficulties, participants reported relying on prayer and seeking God’s guidance as a coping mechanism, which helped them perform their duties effectively and continue serving patients. Additionally, nurses identified two primary forms of appreciation expressed by patients and their families: physical appreciation, such as giving gifts or tangible items, and verbal appreciation, including compliments and expressions of gratitude. The study found that nurses experience challenges in balancing personal and professional life due to low salaries and heavy workloads, which also affect their families. To cope with these difficulties, nurses often seek spiritual guidance and rely on faith. Patients and their families express appreciation through both tangible gifts and verbal acknowledgment, which nurses perceive as rewarding aspects of their profession. Overall, nurses utilize various coping strategies to manage the challenges they face while finding fulfillment in the rewards of their work.