The Feasibility of Nurse Employee Assistance Programs in China Among Nurse Administrators: A Qualitative Research

Abstract

This study aims to explore the feasibility of Nurse Employee Assistance Programs (NEAPs) in China and identify associated factors influencing NEAPs implementation from nurse administrators' perceptions. A qualitative approach was undertaken with 21 participants recruited from 7 tertiary hospitals in China that were conducting trials with NEAPs. Semi-structured interviews were carried out, recorded, and transcribed. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes in the data. Two main themes and five sub-themes were formed. Factors associated with NEAPs implementation were identified as individual level (self-stigma and confidentiality), organizational level (NEAPs funds, human resources, and venue setting), national level (national policy, NEAPs certification, and the guidelines of NEAPs implementation). NEAPs are important in solving burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among Chinese nurses. NEAPs in China are still at an exploratory level, and some factors have hindered or promoted this innovation of NEAPs. Therefore, nurse administrators should establish a mutual-help environment and gain support from organizations and nations to foster NEAPs implementation.