Abstract
Objective
This research examines the socio-educational and acculturation experiences of Filipino nurse-migrants within the context of international healthcare systems. It seeks to understand the multifaceted emotional and professional system-related difficulties they face and how these impact their adaptation strategies and integration processes elsewhere.
Methods
A qualitative phenomenological strategy, as described by Colaizzi’s 7-step analysis method, was employed. A purposeful sample of 10 Filipino nurses deployed to Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United States, Finland, Australia, Ireland, Norway, and Germany was chosen. Participants took part in video conferencing structured interviews, which were conducted remotely. Manually and using NVivo (Version 15, Lumivero, 2024), thematic analysis was conducted to identify important themes from the participants’ stories.
Results
Seven major themes emerged: (1) emotional and cultural dimensions of guilt, isolation, and professional identity negotiation; (2) language and communication barriers, which comprise code-switching and cultural deference challenges; (3) systematic barriers such as credential recognition, licensing examinations, and bureaucratic obstacles; (4) gaps in clinical practice standards, patient care ethics, and discrepancy; (5) family and finances as motivation and resilience; (6) bridging programs and adaptation to student-centered learning as educational transitions; and (7) cultural adaptation depicts discrimination, the workplace hierarchical order, discerning and pragmatically fluent challenges. Despite systemic inequities, participants demonstrated remarkable adaptability, which was visibly rooted in Filipino cultural values such as pakikisama, utang na loob, and bayanihan.
Conclusions
The migration experience of Filipino nurses is associated with profound and emotional changes on professional and cultural levels. While these individuals adapt remarkably well due to their multifaceted resilience, they face unforgiving barriers, including credentialing, cultural, and systemic issues. Policies that foster intercultural understanding alongside psychosocial support and fair recognition of foreign credentials would enhance the positive impact of migrant nurses on international healthcare. These considerations will enhance the integration experience for migrant nurses and have a positive impact on patient care worldwide.