Exploring Nurses' Skills and Challenges: Insights from a Nationwide Survey

In an effort to better understand the skills and experiences of nurses across Japan, Carecom Co., Ltd. conducted a comprehensive survey with 371 participants. Founded in Chofu City, Tokyo, the company, led by CEO Mitsuharu Ikegawa, specializes in developing and selling nurse call products while also operating the nurse information site "Care's Common Sense Wisdom" (aruaru.online). The results of this survey provide a fascinating look into the strengths, weaknesses, and preferences of nurses in their daily work.

Key Findings

The survey asked nurses about their skills in patient care, focusing on what they consider their strengths, weaknesses, and the types of care they enjoy or avoid.

1. Nursing Skills They Excel In

When asked about their areas of expertise, nurses indicated a preference for communication and listening skills, which were highlighted by 18.2% of respondents. Here’s how they ranked:

- Communication and Listening: 18.2%
- IV Insertion: 11.0%
- Blood Draws: 8.2%
- Suctioning: 6.4%
- Environmental Maintenance: 5.1%
- Other notable skills include: Enema, oral care, and meal assistance, among others.

Many respondents attributed their strengths to experience, consistent practice, and recognition from colleagues and patients. Comments such as, "I have a certification in communication skills, which boosts my confidence," and, "Patients appreciate my empathetic approach," illustrate how these factors contribute to their perceived strengths.

2. Favorite Nursing Tasks

The survey also explored which nursing tasks respondents enjoy the most. Environmental maintenance took the lead at 13.7%, followed closely by blood draws at 12.4%. Other appreciated tasks included:

- Meal Assistance: 8.2%
- Foot Bath: 7.9%
- Communication: 6.6%
- Bathing Assistance: 6.6%

Participants expressed that their enjoyment stems from a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction upon completing these tasks successfully.

3. Disliked Nursing Skills

Conversely, the survey uncovered several nursing skills that nurses felt less confident about. The most commonly disliked task was gastric tube insertion, selected by 18.8% of respondents. Other challenging tasks included:

- Enema: 8.3%
- Managing Traction or External Fixation: 8.1%
- Wheelchair Transfers: 7.3%

Many nurses reported that a lack of experience contributed to their discomfort with these tasks, alongside past negative experiences or personal preferences.

4. Confident Skills

When asked to identify their most confidently performed nursing care, psychological care and support topped the list with 28.8%. Other noteworthy responses included:

- IV and Route Management: 9.7%
- Dementia Care: 7.0%

Participants emphasized the importance of putting the patient’s perspective at the forefront of their nursing practice.

Bonus Insights: Motivating Moments

The survey also engaged nurses in discussing moments that invigorate their passion for nursing. Some inspiring scenarios included:
1. Feeling Patient Joy: Receiving heartfelt thanks from patients or their families instills a sense of fulfillment.
2. Achieving During Emergencies: The adrenaline rush from hands-on emergency care was recognized as thrilling and motivating.
3. Building Trust: Successfully establishing rapport with challenging patients can fuel nurses’ motivation.

The overall results highlight that many nurses value their time spent with patients, though they frequently encounter obstacles like routine tasks and staff shortages that limit their engagement.

At Carecom, we remain dedicated to fostering an environment where nurses feel empowered in their roles and contribute positively to the healthcare system. Through ongoing efforts, our goal is to support and enhance the nursing profession effectively.