GYNECOLOGICAL NURSING

This paper shows how gynaecological nursing is perceived by nurses wor king in this specialism. To gain an emic perspective a qualitative stu dy was conducted with 12 qualified nurses working in a gynaecological unit. Data were obtained by means of in-depth interviews and the use o f paradigmatic cases. Analysis showed the nurses to identify many aspe cts to their work that could be shared with nursing in general. Howeve r, the specific nature of gynaecological nursing indicated a special f ocus on interpersonal work related to the private and sensitive nature of gynaecological disorders, with Social, psychological and emotional implications for sexuality, reproduction, future life and relationshi ps.