A Qualitative Study on Challenges Chinese Nurses Face while Working in Japanese Hospitals

Abstract

Background: Considering the increased numbers of Chinese nurses in Japan, we hypothesized that Chinese nurses in Japan are confronted with many difficulties, although few studies have been performed. Therefore, in-depth analyses of their experience to explore significant factors and aspects are required. Objectives: To clarify the problems and difficulties faced by Chinese nurses during their work and life in Japan and to address their future challenges. Methods: We performed semi-structured interviews with 13 Chinese nurses working at 2 Japanese hospitals with Chinese and Japanese registered nurse licenses in 2017. We analyzed data using a qualitative inductive method. Results: We found that Chinese nurses were motivated to work at Japanese hospitals for several reasons. Many Chinese nurses working in Japan had difficulties with the language barrier, interpersonal relationships related to cultural differences, and loneliness in their daily life, and also experienced fewer opportunities for promotion than Japanese nurses and insufficient support from Japanese hospitals. Many Chinese nurses were anxious about their future in Japan. More than half did not have a clear future direction for their working life in Japan. Conclusion: This study clarified the circumstances and difficulties of Chinese nurses working in Japan. One novel finding was that the main reason for their difficulties is due to their unknown career path and future workplace setting. Therefore, support for overcoming the language barrier and improving cultural understanding from hospitals is necessary to help nurses make better decisions based on their future plans.