Objective

The purpose of this study was to explore licensed practical nurses’ (LPNs’) views of being exposed to secondhand smoke in municipal home nursing care.

Design and sample

Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through three focus group interviews with 15 LPNs, smokers, and nonsmokers. Qualitative content analysis was used to interpret the interview text.

Results

Exposure to secondhand smoke during working hours, which presents a risk to the health and wellbeing of the LPNs, is a consequence of placing the interests of the smoking care recipients first and the employers’ reluctance to take action on behalf of the LPNs. These factors prompted LPNs to propose solutions aimed at resolving a major dilemma in routine home nursing care.

Conclusions

A combination of actions, particularly by managers, is required to improve the working environment for LPNs while concurrently respecting the care recipients’ right to take decisions in their own homes.