Silent Aches: A Meta-Analysis of Filipino OFW Nurses’ Psychosocial Burdens and Policy Implications (2000–2025)
Description
This dataset supports the study “Silent Aches: A Meta-Analysis of Filipino OFW Nurses’ Psychosocial Burdens and Policy Implications (2000–2025)” conducted by Dr. Fernan N. Torreno and Famiela Torreno. The research hypothesis is that while Filipino overseas nurses are globally recognized for their clinical contributions, they experience significant but often overlooked psychosocial burdens—termed “silent aches”—which affect their well-being, professional identity, and reintegration prospects. The dataset was derived from a systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2025. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, records were identified from Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL using keywords such as “Filipino nurses,” “psychosocial burden,” and “migration stress.” Inclusion criteria were empirical focus on Filipino OFW nurses, reporting of psychosocial outcomes, and policy relevance. Methodological quality was appraised with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Of the 25 included studies, 14 were qualitative, nine quantitative, and two mixed-methods. The dataset consists of: (1) a study characteristics matrix outlining design, sample, outcomes, and policy relevance; (2) thematic coding matrices across five domains—emotional labor, cultural adaptation, professional integration, family separation, and coping mechanisms; (3) quantitative synthesis outputs pooling prevalence of anxiety (32–45%), depression (28–39%), and burnout (41–58%); (4) subgroup analyses comparing regions and practice settings; and (5) figures and tables including a PRISMA flow diagram, forest plot of psychosocial indicators, thematic quotes, and a SMART policy roadmap. Notable findings reveal consistently elevated levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout among Filipino OFW nurses, particularly in the Middle East where institutional support is weaker. Emotional labor, identity fragmentation, and transnational guilt were prominent themes. Coping strategies such as faith and peer support provided resilience but could not substitute for systemic safeguards. This dataset enables replication, comparative migration research, and policy modeling. It informs bilateral agreements, culturally responsive support systems, and ASEAN-wide resilience standards. By integrating quantitative evidence with lived experiences, the dataset provides a unique resource for researchers, educators, policymakers, and advocates seeking to design psychosocial risk mitigation strategies for migrant healthcare workers.