Health nurses' approaches to deliver care to refugees in Family Health Centers and the challenges they experience: A qualitative study

Abstract

Objective Understanding the experiences and care delivery approaches of family health nurses is essential for advancing refugee healthcare in T & uuml;rkiye, which hosts a substantial refugee population. This study examined the approaches family health nurses employ when delivering care to refugees and the challenges they face within family health centers.Methods A descriptive qualitative design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews to capture the nurses' perspectives. Sixteen nurses from four family health centers participated in the study, which took place between August and September 2024.Results Two overarching themes were identified: (1) Challenges Experienced by Family Health Nurses in Providing Care and (2) Nurses' Approaches and Coping Strategies. Subthemes reflected difficulties related to language and communication, cultural differences in family planning and childcare, and systemic barriers, including issues with identity and registration. Nurses described several approaches to managing these challenges, including the use of informal interpreters, digital translation tools, relational and empathetic communication methods, respecting cultural values, and supporting refugees' compliance with vaccination and follow-up care. Despite systemic constraints, nurses actively adapted their practices to promote equitable and culturally sensitive care.Conclusion The study underscores the vital role of family health nurses in overcoming communication barriers, cultural differences, and systemic challenges when delivering care to refugee populations. Strengthening interpreter support, improving health registration systems, and enhancing cultural competence training in primary care settings are essential to support effective refugee care.