Phenomenological Experience and Determinants of Professional Identity Loss Among Nurses in a Deprived Hospital Setting: The Case of Wangata General Reference Hospital in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo
Abstract
Introduction
Nursing identity is suffering from a global crisis of meaning driven by new public management. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, and particularly at the Wangata General Reference Hospital in Mbandaka, this situation is exacerbated by extreme material deprivation and the cost-recovery system, forcing nurses into continuous financial negotiations that conflict with their professional ethics.
Objective
This study aimed to analyze the phenomenological experience of nurses at the Wangata General Reference Hospital to understand the internal mechanisms and structural determinants driving the loss of their professional identity.
Methodology
This qualitative study adopted Husserl's descriptive phenomenology based on the concept of epochē. Seven nurses (A0, A1, A2 levels) with at least two years of tenure were interviewed using in-depth semi-structured interviews. Verbatim transcriptions underwent thematic content analysis using ATLAS.ti software, while maintaining strict anonymity.
Results
The analysis revealed an entry into the profession often by default, total stagnation in career advancement, and a systematic reliance on "sacrificial care." Faced with a lack of biosecurity supplies and unpaid 36-hour shifts, staff endured medical authoritarianism, severe wage insufficiency, and the trauma of successive epidemics (Ebola, Mpox).
Discussion
Career inertia illustrated the stifling centralization of Kinshasa. The shortage of basic inputs forced reliance on makeshift solutions (système D), generating a profound ethical conflict. Furthermore, symbolic violence from physicians triggered professional aphasia, while material wretchedness drove staff toward silent resignation.
Conclusion
Nurses oscillated between spiritual withdrawal and sacrifice. Urgent reforms are critical: standardizing local risk allowances, decentralizing continuous professional development, and ensuring a continuous supply of personal protective equipment.
Keywords
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How to cite
Mboka Loleka, F. (2026). Phenomenological Experience and Determinants of Professional Identity Loss Among Nurses in a Deprived Hospital Setting: The Case of Wangata General Reference Hospital in Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of Congo. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0048-phenomenological-experience-and-determinants-of-professional-identity