The nurse′s challenge of caring for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary health care

AIM: The aim was to describe asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease nurses′ experiences of caring for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in primary health care. DESIGN: Descriptive qualitative research. METHODS: Ten asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease specialized nurses were interviewed. Systematic Text Condensation by Malterud was used to analyse the data. RESULTS: Two main categories were found: the patient‐nurse relationship and available resources. Several challenges emerged when connecting with patients and the nurses found it difficult to individualize care. They struggled with a lack of time and support from other professionals. Being responsible for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease practice was experienced as positive, but could become overwhelming. The asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease nurses described several challenges and the need for support and resources to provide the best possible care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.