Factors motivating nurses to work during Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Context: Every year the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia announces the opening of applications to those who wish to work on Hajj. A certain number of applicants are nominated, yet many nurses continue to apply to participate during Hajj ever year. Although nurses are under great work pressure during Hajj, many nurses still apply for the approval to participate in Hajj. Aims: The aim of this study is to identify the motivations of nurses to work during Hajj. Furthermore, to explore the motivations that lead nurses to participate in the Hajj season and to explore the challenges faced during the Hajj season. Settings and Design: The study used a descriptive qualitative study design. Twelve nurses participated in this study from Mina hospitals in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Subjects and Methods: In-depth semi-structured interview with 12 nurses. Data were collected from November 2020 to January 2021. Statistical Analysis Used: The data were analyzed using the thematic analysis. Results: This study showed four themes motivating nurses to participate in Hajj: taking part in Hajj is an honor and they are proud of it; great rewards will be received from ALLAH; team spirit; and the fact that it is a good experience. This study also showed two of challenges that nurses face in Hajj which are pilgrims' low awareness and language barriers. Conclusions: The stakeholder should consider these themes and reinforce them to show to all nurses, as this may increase the quality of the applicants asking to work as nurses in Hajj.