THE SILENT STRUGGLE: NURSING AIDES' EXPERIENCES AMIDST THE COVID-19 CRISIS

Abstract

Abstract

This study aims to explore the lived experiences of nursing aides in selected hospitals in Cebu amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, the experiences of nursing aides have remained limited in the Philippines, specifically in Metro Cebu. Husserlian's descriptive phenomenology was utilized to examine and define their lived experiences. The researchers utilized purposive sampling based on the established inclusion criteria: resident of Metro Cebu, working during the pandemic, employed in private or government hospitals with 2 years or more of working experience, and owned a communication device. The data were analyzed using Colaizzi's method. The study yielded two major themes along with five sub-themes. The study found that. Nurse aides seek to be recognized and appreciated for their efforts in the healthcare system. Increasing the budget allocated for nurse aides, benefits, hazard pay, and implementing recognition programs or appreciation events are some of the recommendations that can be proposed to the hospitals or LGUs to motivate them to continue upholding relevance to healthcare, with their scope of practice.