Nurses' experiences of care for patients with Middle East respiratory syndrome-coronavirus in South Korea

Nurses' Experiences and Perspectives Caring for People With Substance Use Disorder and Their Families: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Substance use disorder is a public health crisis that is a financial strain to many healthcare systems and communities, but more importantly, it costs lives. Nurses interact with people experiencing substance use disorders and their families in many settings. Nurses can provide insights into the experiences of working with this population. This descriptive qualitative study aimed to examine nurses' experiences and perspectives on caring for people with substance use disorder and their families. After receiving institutional review approval, purposive sampling was used to recruit registered nurses (n = 16) who worked in a variety of settings, and interviews were conducted. Constant comparison analysis was conducted concurrently with data collection until saturation was reached. Code development and refinement was an iterative process. Three themes were generated from the data. Personal Experiences Affect Professional Practice represented participants varied personal experiences and included two subthemes: Reflecting on Personal Experiences and Seeing the Person Beyond the Substance Use Disorder. A second theme is Professional Experiences Affect Professional Practice, which included two subthemes: Professional Experiences are Stressful and Rewarding and Substance Use Disorder Education Increases Confidence. Finally, Stigma Affects Substance Use Disorder Care is the third theme. Future implications range from the individual engaging in self-reflection, to nursing leadership establishing a framework to incorporate reflection and creating a culture that supports and reinforces these activities. The findings of this study support the need for stigma awareness/reduction education starting in undergraduate nursing programmes, throughout practice, with extension to inter-professional groups and the community.

Perceptions of lived in experiences of healthcare workers during COVID-19 Pandemic in a tertiary Care hospital: A perspective from Pakistan

Objective

This study aimed to explore the perceptions of frontline Healthcare Workers (HCWs) towards managing COVID-19 in Tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Method

This qualitative exploratory study was conducted from January to May 2021 at a Tertiary care hospital designated for COVID-19 patients in Rawalpindi Pakistan. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted from twenty six HCWs. To acquire a sample that was diverse in terms of professional capacity, degree of experience and exposure, purposive sampling technique was used. After thematic analysis, themes were generated by identifying patterns among codes.

Results

Five themes emerged. All HCWs experienced significant amount of negative emotions including fear, uncertainty, imposing social distancing and workload. There were also positive experiences such as rewarding, call of duty and professional growth. HCWs experiences related to personal protective equipment (PPE) were communication issues, physical and dermatological issues, reuse and working confidently while wearing PPE. HCWs were buoyed by cooperation and facilitation, trainings and health education from administration. Coping mechanisms were used such as seeking team support, adjusting cognition to deal with reality and resorting to religion.

Conclusion

Negative emotions predominated in the beginning and positive emotions emerged gradually. PPE and administrative support played significant role. HCWs' mental health was maintained in part by their self-coping styles. The findings of this study can be employed to inform and enhance future pandemic response initiatives.

"Growth under pressure": The Experience of COVID-19 ICU Nurses - A Qualitative Study

Background

As an epidemic, COVID-19 has brought a new shock to the world's healthcare system. The crisis caused by this disease and the prolonged involvement of communities and healthcare systems have intensified the duties and psychological burden of nurses. The current study aimed to explain the experience of ICU nurses during the COVID-19 crisis.

Materials and Methods

The present study was conducted using conventional content analysis in 2021. Twenty nurses of the COVID-19 ICU of Ahvaz hospitals were selected by purposive sampling. The main method of data collection was semistructured interview. The process of data analysis was done based on Granheim and Lundman's approach using MAXQDA-2020. For the scientific rigor of the findings, Guba and Lincoln's four criteria were abided by. The COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist was used to ensure the study met the recommended standards of qualitative data reporting.

Results

After data analysis, 22 subcategories, eight categories, and one theme (growth under pressure) were extracted. The eight main categories included (psychological crisis, physical exhaustion, family conflicts, complex care, professional development, expertise, life enrichment, and full support).

Conclusions

Despite the pressures that ICU nurses faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, they were able to grow by benefiting from positive experiences. These findings can lead to the development and implementation of effective interventions to improve adaptation strategies of nurses, especially those working in the intensive care unit, during the COVID-19 and other future crises.

Nurses' coping strategies caring for patients during severe viral pandemics: A mixed-methods systematic review

BACKGROUND

Nurses play an essential role in responding to severe viral disease which bring considerable challenges to their personal and professional well-being. This subsequently can affect the delivery of care and healthcare systems' organisational capacity to respond. Understanding nurses' experiences of these challenges will help inform healthcare policies.

AIM

To explore the experiences and coping strategies of nurses caring for patients during severe viral disease pandemics.

DESIGN

A mixed-methods systematic review informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology.

METHODS

A mixed-methods systematic review. Five electronic databases Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, ASSIA and Scopus were searched on 4th April 2021. Results were reported in accordance with PRISMA. The findings were analysed and reported in the context of the Self-Regulatory Common-Sense Model.

RESULTS

In total, 71 peer-review primary research articles describing nurses' experiences of caring for patients during SARS, MERS, Swine flu H1N1, Avian influenza or SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 published in English from 2003 to 2021 were included. We found links between nurses' perception of the health threats, their emotional reactions, and coping strategies. Perceived health threats were influenced by organisational factors including frequent changes in clinical guidelines and workplace protocols, onerous workloads and working hours, unavailability of PPE, and lack of knowledge and training in pandemic management. These impacted nurses' physical, psychological and social well-being. Nurses also reported helpful and unhelpful coping strategies to manage the health threats.

CONCLUSIONS

It is vital for stakeholders, policymakers, government and healthcare institutions to recognise and monitor the wider impact on healthcare workers from health emergencies. In addition, support to develop and implement effective systems and individual mechanisms to offset the anticipated impact pre and post pandemics/epidemics is needed. Our findings can inform those strategies for similar future health emergencies.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Nurses are often the first point of contact in providing direct care to patients, hence they are at high risk of being infected. The findings from this review can help managers and policymakers in developing programmes to enhance resilience in the nursing workforce.

NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

This was a literature review study.

The impact of psychological distress, socio-demographic and work-related factors on coping strategies used by nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study

AIM

This study aimed to determine factors associated with coping strategies used by nursing staff during the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

A convenience sample of 365 nurses were selected from referral hospitals for COVID-19 patients in Tabriz, Iran between February 2022 and July 2022. An online self-administered questionnaire was distributed through social media platforms, including WhatsApp and Instagram. The survey package included a modified Brief COPE scale, socio-demographic and work-related questions, and a measure of psychological distress. Multiple regression analysis examined associated factors with coping strategies in SPSS. The study adhered to the STROBE guidelines for reporting.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 31.2 (7.3) years old. Of the 365 participants, 209 (58.9%) used maladaptive coping strategies, and 214 (57.6%) reported experiencing psychological distress. Psychological distress was the strongest predictor of maladaptive coping strategies (β = 4.473, p < 0.001). Female nurses (β = 3.259, p < 0.05), nurses who were under 35 years of age (β = 3.214, p < 0.05), nurses with fewer than ten years of experience (β = 2.416, p < 0.001), those who worked in COVID-19 ICUs (β = 4.321, p < 0.001), floor nurses (β = 2.344, p < 0.001), and those who worked two or more years in COVID-19 settings (β = 3.293, p < 0.001) had higher mean scores in maladaptive coping strategies.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contributions.

Exploring Psychological Consequences of COVID-19 Pandemic on Nurses Caring Patients with COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

Introduction

COVID-19 is a new disease infecting a large number of people, and undoubtedly have psychological impacts on healthcare workers. Among healthcare staff, nurses are the most involved ones in fighting against COVID-19. Therefore, this study aimed to explore nurses' experiences of psychological consequences during caring patients with COVID-19.

Methods

The present qualitative study was conducted using the conventional content analysis approach (Graneheim and Lundman) Iran. Participants in this study included 15 nurses working with patients with COVID-19, selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected using in-depth interviews. The rigor of data was assessed using the criteria proposed by Guba and Lincoln.

Results

Nurses reported the four following psychological consequences of COVID-19 pandemic on caring patients with COVID-19: post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, physical exhaustion, and aggressive behaviors.

Conclusion

The data showed that nurses experienced a variety of psychological consequences during caring patients with COVID-19. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor nurses' psychological problems and implement interventions to improve their mental health.

Through the eyes of nurses: a content analysis of nurses' experiences in caring for COVID-19 patients

BACKGROUND

In the current global climate, the nursing staff has placed a significant emphasis on developing effective self-protection strategies and implementing measures to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases, with a particular focus on the highly communicable COVID-19 virus. Ensuring the safety and well-being of both healthcare providers and patients has made it imperative to incorporate this aspect into healthcare provision.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to describe the experiences of nurses in providing care for patients infected with COVID-19.

METHODOLOGY

This qualitative content analysis study, following COREQ guidelines, involved 18 nurses who were taking care of COVID-19 patients at Shahid Mohamadi Hospital, a general hospital in Bandar Abbas, Hormozgan Province. The hospital is affiliated with Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences and the research was conducted in 2022.The sampling method was purposive, and unstructured interviews were used. Data collection continued until data saturation was achieved. Data analysis was performed continuously and concurrently through the collection of data using conventional content analysis methods.

FINDINGS

The qualitative analysis of the data revealed three main themes centered on challenges related to nurses' self-care, patient care, and the healthcare delivery system.

CONCLUSION

Overall, to address the challenges faced by healthcare providers caring for COVID-19 patients, their needs must be prioritized. This includes establishing a prepared healthcare system, implementing strategies to protect their well-being, and learning from their experiences for future disease outbreaks and disasters.

Nursing Care Challenges for Patients Suffering from COVID-19 from Nurses' Perspective in Iran: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

Background

Encountering the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, nurses face many challenges due to various strategies and resources that can compromise the quality of care. This study aimed to identify nursing care challenges for patients with COVID-19 from nurses' viewpoint in Iran.

Materials and Methods

This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in one of the main admission centers in Isfahan to treat patients with COVID-19. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews with 19 nurses from April 2020 to June 2020. The recorded interviews were transcribed and then analyzed through inductive content analysis.

Results

The challenges of nursing care for patients infected with COVID-19 from the nurses' viewpoint were categorized into 11 subcategories and four main categories: work overload in disaster (lack of nurses with adequate clinical qualification and restrictions on the compliance of the infection control protocols), immersion in an ocean of psychological and social tensions (personal and family tensions, work environment tensions, perception of organizational injustice, and social stigma), quality of care in fragile condition (self-preservation rather than patient care and contradictory patient care standards), and disaster preparedness, response, and management (passive resource management, information system challenges, and lack of guideline-supported protocols).

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggest that policymakers should actively participate in supporting nurses in the form of reducing physical and mental stress in pandemics such as COVID-19. Having the right perception of the challenges nurses face in such crises can contribute to providing patient safety, improving the quality of care, maintaining organizational resources, and properly managing the disaster.

A qualitative study of ICU nurses assisting in Wuhan who suffered from workplace violence during the COVID-19 outbreak

AIM

To explore the psychological experience and coping methods of nurses exposed to workplace violence and to propose measures to prevent and control workplace violence and provide psychological assistance for health workers.

DESIGN

We adopted a phenomenological qualitative design. Twelve nurses in intensive care units assisting in Wuhan who experienced workplace violence during the COVID-19 outbreak were selected using purposeful sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured individual telephone interviews and analysed using Colaizzi's 7-step method.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed three main categories including "Full of negative emotions", "Facing challenges and danger" and "Coping methods". The subjects experienced stress, fear, anger, helplessness, disappointment, sympathy and job burnout after suffering from workplace violence. The coping methods for workplace violence mainly included seeking support and help, escaping, making explanations, exercising tolerance and confronting the issue.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution since nurses' experiences were explored.

Iranian Pharmacist's Experiences of COVID-19 Pandemic: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Since the 2019 COVID-19 pandemic is not the first and will not be the last, pharmacists' experiences during this period can be used to establish a more efficient healthcare system to face future pandemics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore Iranian pharmacists' experiences in pharmacies using the content analysis method.

METHODS

In this qualitative study, a conventional content analysis approach was applied. Ten male and female pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Birjand, Iran participated using a purposeful sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were carried out for data collection. The data were analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman's method.

RESULTS

Four categories and ten subcategories were extracted as follows: Multifaceted concerns of pharmacists (familial, economical, professional, and personal concerns), Non-compliance with protocols from occurrence to cause (facing non-compliance with protocols by clients, obstacles to complying with protocols in the pharmacy), Prevention from COVID-19 (protective equipment usage, designing protection rules), and Double reactions to COVID-19 (emotional and; practical reactions).

CONCLUSIONS

Pharmacists dealt with different concerns and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. They are one of the main primary care providers and need to be supported by the authorities to maintain their standard level of services.

Evaluation of the impact of redeployment during the COVID-19 pandemic: results from a multi-centre survey

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented upheaval for healthcare systems globally. Rapid changes in the way nurses were asked to work brought about many challenges, especially with the requirement for nurses to move into intensive care and high dependency areas to deliver care for the increasing number of critically ill patients.

Aim

The purpose of this evaluation was to assess the impact of these changes on nurses who were redeployed during the first acute phase of the pandemic and explore factors associated with burnout.

Methods

A redeployment survey, containing 42 items in four domains (preparation for redeployment, safety and support, perceived competence, reflections and emotional impact) was administered online to nurses who had been redeployed in two hospitals in England, one urban and one rural. Bivariate correlations and a multiple linear regression model were conducted to explore associations between perceptions of leadership, training, communication and feeling valued with levels of emotional exhaustion.

Results

Valid responses were received from 240/618 (39%) nurses. The majority of respondents felt it was their duty to work where they were asked (79%), were prepared to work where needed (72%) and were consulted on changes to their working hours (55%). However, nurses were nervous about the new role (75%) and felt they had a lack of choice regarding redeployment (66%) and the way it was implemented (50%). Multiple regression analysis showed that lack of training (β = 0.18) and feeling undervalued (β = 0.48) was positively associated with emotional exhaustion, which accounted for 38% of the variance among redeployed nurses.

Conclusions

To mitigate the risk of nurses developing burnout as a result of redeployment, there is a need for training to upskill them so they feel competent in doing the changed role. Additionally, nursing leadership needs to support nurses feeling valued as individuals in their role.

Bipolar Coping Strategies of Nurses in Facing the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Meta-synthesis Review

Nurses on the front line of facing the COVID-19 pandemic have applied many coping strategies to adapt to their experienced physical and psychosocial challenges. This review aimed to identify coping strategies of nurses in the face of Covid-19. In this meta-synthesis review, qualitative articles related to the coping strategies published in English in the Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL databases were selected and analyzed. The review of selected articles showed nurses have used various coping strategies that can be categorized into one main theme, two themes, and ten sub-themes. The theme of efficient coping strategies includes the sub-themes of spiritual-religious coping, protective coping (protection of family members and colleagues), supportive coping by obtaining support from family, friends, colleagues, society, and government organizations, committed coping, positive mind coping, emotional coping, operational coping, and fun coping. The theme of inefficient coping strategies includes the sub-themes of avoidance and risky behaviors. The strategies lead to the synthesis of bipolar coping strategies of nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, healthcare policymakers should emphasize using efficient strategies and avoiding inefficient ones.

Nurses' intention to care for patients with infectious disease: a content analysis study

OBJECTIVE

This present study was designed to explain the concept of nurses intention to care of patients with infectious diseases.

METHODS

This study is a deductive content analysis study that was performed from May 2022 to Jun 2022 in three hospitals in Iran. In total 21 nurses were chosen by purposive sampling and for deta collection used semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was done using Elo and Kingas method.

RESULTS

This study have revealed the formation of seven distinct themes, namely Job satisfaction, Professional ethics, Personal values, Standard precautions, Preserving health, Support, and Attitude of patients and their families. These themes are comprised of 17 categories and 59 subcategories.

CONCLUSION

By comprehending the dimensions of nurses' intentions to care for patients with infectious diseases, it is possible to develop suitable planning and strategies to meet the healthcare requirements of such patients. Managers can take action by examining the issues and demands of nurses, and by providing job security, they can establish a Healthcare service systems with high security that can effectively respond during an outbreak of infectious diseases. Additionally, Nursing managers can prevent nurses from leaving their jobs by taking appropriate intervention, increasing their motivation, and enhancing their satisfaction.

Caregiving experiences of nurses working in a newly established intensive care unit during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has adversely affected intensive care nurses; for instance, they have fought against an unknown disease, and their workload has increased. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has led intensive care nurses to work in new settings and with new teams.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore and describe the caregiving experiences of nurses who were working in a new COVID-19 intensive care unit in Turkey and providing care for patients infected with SARS-CoV-2.

METHOD

In this descriptive qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were held from 22 July to 31 August 2020 and were recorded and analysed based on thematic analysis. The researchers followed the COREQ checklist in reporting the study.

FINDINGS

From interviews held with 11 nurses, four main themes (uncertainty and challenges in the 'danger zone', emotional and psychosocial changes, professional effects of the pandemic and being ready for a future pandemic) were derived from 11 sub-themes.

CONCLUSIONS

The new setting and the ever-changing team make caring for the COVID-19 patient even more difficult. A good organization, an experienced permanent team, a known setting and good working conditions are essential to be prepared for possible pandemics in the future.

Compassionate Nursing Care for COVID-19 Patients in the ICU in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia: A Lived Experience Study

INTRODUCTION

The rapid spread and the severity of symptoms of COVID-19 led to an increasing number of critical cases that need to be admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide. Compassion is a principle of nursing practice and indicates the meaning of providing high-quality care in all units, especially in the ICU. It means that nurses know what is important to patients and when they should be there for them when it is needed. There is a paucity of literature from Saudi Arabia that explores how critical care nurses perceive compassionate care during COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the lived experiences of critical care nurses providing compassionate care to COVID-19 patients at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

A prospective, cross-sectional, descriptive phenomenological approach was utilized in this study. Data were collected from 13 ICU nurses through interviews. Collected data were transcribed and analyzed using Colaizzi's data analysis method.

RESULTS

 Eleven out of the 13 ICU nurses hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and have more than five years of experience. Despite all the challenges surrounding the care for critically ill COVID-19 patients, nurses provide compassion in different ways to show personal interest to the patients. Data analysis revealed five themes: (1) contemporary meaning and competencies for compassionate nursing care, including communication and the inability to freely use touch; (2) physical symptoms, including discomfort, body aches and headaches, and sleep disturbances; (3) emotional turmoil, where three sub-themes emerged, including fear and anxiety, uncertainty, and isolation and loneliness; (4) role changing, including frequent guidelines change, additional roles and responsibilities, and altruism; (5) professionalism, including cultural facets of care, teamwork, and support.

DISCUSSION

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused major changes in nurses' working environment and so their experience. The results of this study indicated that nurses working in the ICU experienced remarkable and massive physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The nurses extended the relationships to the patients' families as they are at high risk of stress, anxiety, and depression. In addition, they were able to support them in dealing with the fear associated with the uncertainty of COVID-19. Also, results revealed that remote therapeutic relationships and psychotherapy can be credible and trustworthy alternatives to in-person care.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicated that ICU nurses provide compassionate care despite experiencing unprecedented and immense physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Further study is recommended using other research methodologies. It is also recommended to conduct the same study in different cities for better generalization.

Nurses' Burnout, Resilience, and Its Associated Factors in Sichuan, China, During the Peak of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Infection

AIM

To investigate the level of burnout and resilience, and the associated factors when the coronavirus disease 2019 infection hit a peak in the community in Sichuan, China.

METHOD

This was a descriptive cross-sectional design study. Data were collected from 25 to 31 December 2022, at six hospitals in Sichuan province. Using convenience sampling, a total of 717 participants were recruited, using the revised version of the Maslach Burnout InventoryGeneral Survey, and the Resilience Assessment Scale for healthcare workers.

RESULTS

More than half of nurses reported a moderate level of emotional exhaustion (66.50%, n = 484), cynicism (68.20%, n = 489), and personal accomplishment (68.76%, n = 493); nearly one-third and one-fourth of nurses experienced a high level of emotional exhaustion (27.48%, n = 197) and cynicism (20.78%, n = 149), respectively. In resilience, the highest scoring dimension was interpersonal connectedness, followed by decisional coping, flexible self-adaptation, and rational thinking. Satisfaction with work income, patient-nurse conflict, frequency of overtime work, age, and marital status were significant factors influencing burnout among nurses (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

The findings of the study enlighten nursing administrators on the level of burnout and resilience and associated factors among nurses during the peak of coronavirus disease 2019 infection in China. This would be of immense help in planning a welfare program to support the nurses.

Intensive care nurse managers' experiences during the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic: Implications for future epidemiological crises

BACKGROUND

Nurse managers play an important role in coordinating the multidisciplinary teamwork, which is specifically important in emergency and crises situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this qualitative study is twofold: (1) to explore the experiences of the Intensive care units (ICU) nurse managers regarding their work during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and (2) to analyse what implications might be provided based on experiences of nurse managers for future possible epidemiological crises.

METHODS

In-depth phone interviews were conducted to explore the experiences of ward managers-nurses (n = 15) working in different hospitals across Poland. Interviews were taped and transcribed verbatim, and then qualitatively analysed.

RESULTS

Three main categories were identified: (1) Challenge of working with the unknown, (2) Nurse managers' expectations, and (3) Methods of coping and received support. The COVID-19 pandemic strongly affected the work of ICU nurse managers and uncovered the malfunctioning of the healthcare system.

CONCLUSION

It is important to improve the knowledge and competence of hospital management personnel through exercises and in-service training on how to handle emergencies in order to improve the management of healthcare facilities, increase the safety of patients and employees, and the quality of healthcare.

Correlation between COVID-19-related health anxiety and coping styles among frontline nurses

BACKGROUND

The long-term epidemic of COVID-19 and its recurrence has exposed frontline nurses to mental disorders such as stress and health anxiety. High levels of health anxiety associated with COVID-19 may lead to maladaptive behaviors. There is no agreement on which coping styles are most effective against stress. Therefore, more evidence is required to find better adaptive behaviors. The present study was conducted to investigate the correlation between the level of health anxiety and the type of coping strategies used by frontline nurses fighting COVID-19.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study that was performed on a convenience sample of 386 nurses who are working in the COVID department from October to December 2020, coinciding with the outbreak of the third COVID-19 peak in Iran. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire, the short version of the health anxiety questionnaire, and coping inventory for stressful situations. Data were analyzed using independent T-test, U-Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis statistical tests with SPSS version 23 software.

RESULTS

The mean score of nurses' health anxiety was 17.61 ± 9.26 which was more than the cut-off point for health anxiety and 59.1% of nurses had COVID-19-related health anxiety. The mean score of problem coping style (26.85 ± 5.19), was higher than emotion (18.48 ± 5.63) and avoidance (19.64 ± 5.88) coping styles and nurses mostly used problem-coping strategies to deal with anxiety caused by COVID-19. There was a positive significant correlation between the scores of health anxiety and emotion coping style (r = 0.54; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings of this study, COVID-19-related health anxiety was high in front-line nurses and those with high health anxiety were more likely to use emotion-based coping strategies, which are ineffective. Therefore, considering strategies to reduce nurses' health anxiety and holding training programs on effective coping methods in epidemic conditions are recommended.

Middle Eastern nurses' views/experiences of work and well-being with the support measures during past disease outbreaks and COVID-19: a qualitative systematic review

BACKGROUND

The potential psychological health impact of pandemics on nurses has been increasingly widely recognised, as have recommendations to establish support measures for nurses' well-being. Despite the availability of support measures significant number of nurses still experienced burnout and mental distress during Covid-19. Few efforts have been made in the wider literature to understand how nurses experience well-being support or how they perceive it affects their well-being during pandemics. In the Middle East, understanding and exploring well-being support measures during pandemics from nurses' perspectives has not received significant attention.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate nurses' perspectives and experiences of well-being support measures during prior pandemics and the Covid-19 pandemic in the Middle East.

METHODS

A systematic qualitative review was undertaken utilising the JBI model as a framework. Searches were carried out in databases comprised CINAHL, MEDLINE, NUsearch Library of Nottingham University and Google Scholar. Moreover, a manual search through reference lists for relevant studies were carried out.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Eleven studies were included in the review. The findings from the included qualitative studies were extracted using the JBI-QARI data extraction tool for qualitative research. The results were synthesised using a meta-synthesis in line with the JBI approach.

RESULTS

The included studies yielded an aggregate of 111 findings and were categorised into 14 categories, followed by four synthesised findings. These were: [1] nurses experienced challenges during MERS, yet different strategies were implemented by leaders and nurses to manage these challenges; [2] some well-being support measures were unfulfilled during Covid-19; [3] additional aspects compounded negatively on nurses' well- being; and [4] nurses showed maturity during Covid-19.

CONCLUSION

In comparison to prior health emergencies, well-being support measures during Covid-19 were not sufficiently adopted. Nurse policymakers and managers should consider these support measures to correspond with nurses' needs and explore the contextual factors that affect their implementation.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO (CRD42022344005).

A Resilient Care of the Patient With COVID-19: A Phenomenological Study

This study a utilized phenomenological hermeneutic design. Fourteen Iranian family caregivers of patients with COVID-19 who were isolated at home were included in the study using purposive sampling. In-depth unstructured interviews were conducted via WhatsApp. Sampling continued until data saturation. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using Van Manen's approach. Three primary themes and eight subthemes emerged. The primary themes included: "captured in a whirlpool of time", "resilient care' and "feeling helpless". It seems that the families of patients with COVID-19 attempt to resist the pressures of this disease with religious practices and problem solving. However, due to the nature of the disease and its severity, they sometimes feel ashamed or lonely and are afraid of losing their loved ones. It is recommended that psychiatric nurses should develop programs in the form of comprehensive spiritual care packages or psychological support and utilize multiple media channels to deliver these.

Experiences of nurses in charge of COVID-19 critical care patients during the initial stages of the pandemic in Japan

The fatality rate of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) at the beginning of the pandemic was as high as 8.5%, and it was considered to be an intractable infectious disease. Reports regarding early experiences are essential for improving nurses' quality of care, patient safety, and working conditions during future pandemics. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the experiences of nurses who were in charge of critically ill COVID-19 patients during the early stages of the pandemic in Japan. This was a qualitative study. Participants were nurses who were in charge of critically ill COVID-19 patients in an emerging contagious disease ward between February and April 2020. Interviews were conducted in groups of 2-3 persons based on an interview guide using an online conferencing application to prevent infection. Consent to participation was obtained from 19 nurses. Five categories of experiences were generated from the analysis: "Fear of risk to my own life and to those of others around me", "The shock of finding myself amid an infectious disease pandemic", "Anxiety about unknown challenges", "Driven by a sense of purpose", and "Growth as nurses". Working under harsh conditions where nurses' safety is threatened may affect the quality of care and nurses' mental health. Therefore, nurses should receive both short-term and long-term support.

Anxiety, depression, and insomnia among nurses during the full liberalization of COVID-19: a multicenter cross-sectional analysis of the high-income region in China

Introduction

Frontline nurses fighting against the epidemic were under great psychological stress. However, there is a lack of studies assessing the prevalence rates of anxiety, depression, and insomnia among frontline nurses after the full liberalization of COVID-19 in China. This study demonstrates the impact of the full liberalization of COVID-19 on the psychological issues and the prevalence rate and associated factors of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia among frontline nurses.

Methods

A total of 1766 frontline nurses completed a self-reported online questionnaire by convenience sampling. The survey included six main sections: the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), the 7-item Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), sociodemographic information, and work information. Multiple logistic regression analyses were applied to identify the potential significantly associated factors for psychological issues. The study methods were compliant with the STROBE checklist.

Results

90.83% of frontline nurses were infected with COVID-19, and 33.64% had to work while infected COVID-19. The overall prevalence of depressive symptoms, anxiety and insomnia among frontline nurses was 69.20%, 62.51%, and 76.78%, respectively. Multiple logistic analyses revealed that job satisfaction, attitude toward the current pandemic management, and perceived stress were associated with depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia.

Conclusions

This study highlighted that frontline nurses were suffering from varying degrees of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and insomnia during full liberalization of COVID-19. Early detection of mental health issues and preventive and promotive interventions should be implemented according to the associated factors to prevent a more serious psychological impact on frontline nurses.

Occupational Challenges of Intensive Care Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Introduction

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been spreading rapidly as a pandemic and posed numerous challenges to healthcare workers (HCWs), especially nurses. This study aimed to investigate the occupational challenges experienced by intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in caring for patients with COVID-19.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted using a conventional content analysis method in September and October 2020. The study environment was the ICU wards dedicated to the patients of COVID-19 in a large hospital in east of Iran. The participants were selected by purposeful sampling method, and data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 17 nurses working in the COVID-19 ICUs. Data analysis was done with MAXQDA 2020.

Results

The data analysis led to the extraction of 6 main categories and 17 sub-categories. The main challenges included "payment system", "human resource management", "consumable resource supply", "psychological and ethical distress", "personal or family problems", and "staff motivation and welfare issues".

Conclusion

Considering the key and important role of nurses in the healthcare system, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is necessary to increase their motivation by applying a fair and non-discriminatory payment system and paying special attention to psychological issues. Also, managerial support and provision of required facilities and manpower have a significant impact on reducing their occupational challenges in caring for patients with COVID-19.

Experience of chinese counter-marching nurses with COVID-19 patients' death in Wuhan: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic was occurring worldwide with over a 6.5 million deaths. It's important to explore the instructions for the global nursing community by identifying the personal coping methods of Chinese nurses in Wuhan to deal with patient deaths.

METHODOLOGY

The study used a qualitative conventional content analysis with 14 Chinese Counter-marching nurses. Purposive sampling, snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used for participants and data collection. To assess the quality of the findings, Guba and Lincoln's criteria for confidence were fulfilled.

RESULTS

The data analysis results in 4 main categories:(1) psychological shocks related to COVID-19 patient's death; (2) personal psychological adjustment and demands; (3) insights on life and values; (4) Needs for relevant knowledge and skills.

CONCLUSIONS

During the outbreak of the epidemic or pandemic, adequate psychological care resources need to be provided to nurses when facing the death of infectious patients, to reduce the negative emotions brought by death. Effective coping strategies should also be formulated to enhance their resilience and promote their professional competence.

"Why Am I Even Here If I Can't Save the Patients?": The Frontline Healthcare Workers' Experience of Burnout during COVID-19 Pandemic in Mthatha, South Africa

INTRODUCTION

Globally, the high prevalence of burnout in healthcare workers (HCWs) is of the utmost concern. Burnout is a state of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and a decreased sense of personal accomplishment. While the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) exacerbated the burnout prevalence among HCWs, limited studies have explored this phenomenon using qualitative methodologies in the Eastern Cape Province and South Africa generally. This study explored how frontline healthcare workers experienced burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mthatha Regional Hospital.

METHODS

Ten face-to-face in-depth interviews were conducted with non-specialized medical doctors and nurses who directly cared for COVID-19-infected patients during the pandemic in Mthatha Regional Hospital (MRH). In-depth interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were managed through NVIVO 12 software before being thematically analyzed using Colaizzi's analysis method.

RESULTS

Four main themes emerged from the analysis. These themes were burnout manifestation (emotional strain, detachment and irritability, uncertainty-induced fear, and anxiety, physical exhaustion, yet, low job accomplishment, dread and professional responsibility), precursors of burnout (occupational exposure to high mortality, staff shortages, elongated high patient volume and workload, disease uncertainties and consistent feeling of grief), alleviating factors of burnout (time off work, psychologist intervention, periods of low infection rate and additional staff), and the last theme was every cloud has a silver lining (improved infection prevention and control (IPC) measures, learning to be more empathetic, the passion remains and confidence grows).

CONCLUSION

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a rapid change in the work environment of healthcare workers who are the backbone of efficient healthcare services, thereby rendering them vulnerable to increased burnout risks. This study provides strategic information for policymakers and managers on developing and strengthening welfare policies to promote and protect frontline health workers' well-being and work functioning.

Impact of insomnia on mental status among chronic disease patients during Covid-19 pandemic

Background

The Coronavirus disease (Covid-19) 2019 pandemic had a serious impact on the mental health of individuals globally. A lack of psychological well-being on the part of individuals with chronic diseases might increase the risk of developing symptoms such as insomnia, depression, and anxiety.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of insomnia, depression, and anxiety among patients with chronic disease during the Covid-19 pandemic in Oman.

Methods

This is a web-based cross-sectional study conducted between June 2021 and September 2021. Insomnia was assessed by using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), while depression and anxiety were measured using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).

Results

Of the 922 chronic disease patients who participated, 77% (n = 710) reported insomnia, while the mean score for the ISI was11.38 (SD 5.82). Depression and anxiety were prevalent among the participants with 47% and 63% respectively. The participants' mean with regard to the sleep duration items was 7.04 (SD = 1.59) hours per night, whereas the mean in terms of sleep latency was 38.18 minutes (SD = 31.81). Logistic regression analysis revealed that insomnia was positively associated with depression and anxiety.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that chronic disease patients had a high prevalence of insomnia during the Covid-19 pandemic. Psychological support is recommended in order to help such patients reduce the level of insomnia. Furthermore, a routine assessment of levels of insomnia, depression and anxiety is essential, in order to help identify appropriate intervention and management measures.

Experiences of nurses providing care for patients with COVID-19 in acute care settings in the early stages of the pandemic: A thematic meta-synthesis study

AIM

The aim of this work is to synthesize and interpret qualitative research examining the experiences of nurses providing care for patients with COVID-19 in acute care settings in the early stages of the pandemic in different countries.

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of disasters, including the pandemic, is increasing globally. It is important to understand nurses' experiences in depth to effectively manage extraordinary events that may occur in the future.

DESIGN

This is a thematic meta-synthesis study.

METHODS

Electronic databases, including CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, OVID, and Scopus, were searched for publications from December 2019 to October 2020. The search was updated for publications to 30 May 2022. The thematic synthesis method was used to analyse and interpret the data.

FINDINGS

The experiences of the nurses giving care to patients with COVID-19 were grouped under four themes: (1) Difficulties encountered in the care of patients with COVID-19; (2) mixed emotions experienced in the care of patients with COVID-19; (3) coping strategies that nurses used in the management of the pandemic; (4) the benefits of the COVID-19 to nurses.

CONCLUSION

Nurses faced many difficulties and experienced mixed emotions while providing care for patients with coronavirus disease. Perceived social support was seen as the most important strategy for coping with these difficult situations. It is important to be aware of the difficulties and emotions experienced by nurses and support them during the COVID-19 pandemic for the management of future pandemics.

Photovoice Exploration of Frontline Nurses' Experiences During the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

The current COVID-19 global pandemic has had a profound impact on the health care system and on the physical and psychological well-being of nurses. Previous pandemics have led to nurses leaving the profession. Therefore, it is important that we hear the voices of nurses who experienced the pandemic on the frontlines to influence future planning and policy development.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to explore frontline nurses' experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic through photos, narratives, and group discussions.

METHODS

Twelve nurses in two groups shared their lived experiences through Photovoice, a participatory action approach. Photos and narratives were collected over five weeks per group. One group at the beginning of the pandemic and the other group six months later. Focus group discussions were held following each group.

RESULTS

Five themes emerged from the photovoice data: (1) The work of nursing; (2) Miscommunication; (3) Fatigue; (4) Resilience; and (5) Hope for the future. Various subthemes were noted within each theme to delineate the lived experience of frontlines nurses working in the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The voices of nurses and their experiences on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic need to be considered in pandemic planning and integrated into health care policy, guidelines, and structural changes.

Using Technology to Facilitate Evidence-Based Practice During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic brought many challenges to the health care workforce. A novel infectious disease, COVID-19 uncovered information gaps that were essential for frontline staff, including nurses, to care for patients and themselves. The authors developed a Web-based solution consisting of saved searches from PubMed on clinically relevant topics specific to nurses' information needs. This article discusses the objectives, development, content, and usage of this Internet resource and also provides tips for hospitals of all sizes to implement similar tools to evidence-based practice during infectious disease outbreaks.

Nurses' adaptations to changes on a COVID-19 ward in South Korea: A qualitative study

Background

Elucidating nurses' adaptation to changes in the early stage of an infectious disease epidemic is necessary to promote nurses' coping with and adapting to situations in which new infectious diseases are predicted periodically.

Aim

To explore nurses' adaptation to changes in COVID-19 wards in South Korea.

Methods

In-depth interviews were conducted with 20 nurses through purposive sampling from May to August 2020. The collected data were transcribed verbatim, and analysis was performed using conventional content analysis.

Findings

Three categories emerged from the interviews: (a) Disruption caused by an unforeseen pandemic outbreak, (b) perseverance through the turmoil of changes as a nurse, and (c) transition from feelings of fearfulness to those of accomplishment. While the nurses initially struggled to care for patients with COVID-19, they made conscious efforts to provide emotional nursing and maintain their professionalism.

Discussion

Nurses caring for patients with COVID-19 have faced a number of challenges but have adapted to new scenarios by endeavoring to fulfil their professional roles.

Conclusion

To overcome a national disaster situation such as COVID-19, the government and healthcare organizations should prepare strategies to support the efforts of nurses to strengthen their own professionalism.

The experience of Saudi respiratory therapists dealing with COVID-19 patients: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Healthcare professionals have fought hard to restrain the COVID-19 pandemic by providing high-quality care for their infected patients, but in doing so they have developed fears of becoming sick and feelings of isolation and loneliness. The lived experience of respiratory therapists (RTs) in Saudi Arabia who works with these infected patients needs further investigation. The study sought to describe the experiences and coping strategies of Saudi RT managing patients with COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study utilized qualitative research methods, specifically employing a phenomenological research design. A total of 25 Saudi RT (RTs) who were in direct contact with COVID-19 patients were selected after they agreed to participate in this study. The study followed a one-on-one semi-structured interview process using the Zoom platform. This qualitative data collection technique focuses on the participants' lived experiences and feelings to discover shared patterns. The data were analyzed via an inductive approach.

RESULTS

Six themes were found in the RT perceptions including stress while treating COVID patients, managing the fear of catching of Covid 19, feelings towards COVID-19 patients, challenges faced by female RTs, workplace experiences, and excessive workload.

CONCLUSIONS

RTs feelings dramatically changed throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. All the RTs have developed a self-copying style that has helped them improve their psychosocial behavior to face the pandemic. During the outbreak, frontline RTs' positive and negative emotions intertwined and coexisted. Negative emotions predominated in the beginning, while good feelings emerged gradually. Self-coping methods and psychosocial development were significant factors in RTs mental health while caring for COVID-19 patients.

The Lived Experiences of Nurses Caring for Patients With COVID-19 in Arabian Gulf Countries: A Multisite Descriptive Phenomenological Study

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, several studies worldwide have explored nurses' experiences of caring for COVID-19 patients in various healthcare settings. However, these studies were conducted in context, culture, and healthcare systems that differ greatly from the Arabian Gulf context. This descriptive phenomenological study aimed to understand nurses' lived experiences caring for patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in Arabian Gulf countries. Individual virtual interviews were conducted with 36 nurses from five countries and were analyzed using Giorgi's methodology. Four main themes were identified: (1) living with doubts, (2) living through the chaos of challenges, (3) moving toward professional resilience, and (4) reaching the maximum level of potential. The findings from this study hopefully will guide health organizations in this region in developing strategies and policies to support and prepare nurses for future outbreaks.

EXPERIENCES OF TURKISH NURSES WITH COVID-19 INFECTION IN PANDEMIC AND POST-PANDEMIC: A QUALITATIVE STUDY

In the most difficult times of epidemics, the importance of the role of nurses is greater than ever. In our study we aimed to determine the experiences of Turkish nurses with COVID-19 infection about the process ın pandemıc and post-pandemıc. The study was conducted in a qualitative research format with a semi-structured interview form including nurses who had COVID-19 infection and then returned to work. The post-pandemic interview was held approximately 2 years after the first interview. The first interview sample consisted of 21 nurses who recovered from COVID-19 infection and The data were collected between September and December 2020. In the second interview, 11 nurses were reached in January 2023. The first interview themes obtained at the end of the interview were (1) fear and anxiety, (2) worthlessness, (3) questioning and regret, and (4) power. The second interview themes obtained at the end of the interview were (1) health perception, (2) profession perception. The pandemic and post pandemic is a process that challenges nurses mentally and physically. Nurses have taken important roles in the pandemic period since the first stage. In order for nurses to fulfill their duties from now on, the difficulties experienced by the nurse staff should be aware of and arrangements should be made regarding the working area. Nurses and other health practitioners need support in challenging situations. Policies should be developed to support healthcare professionals who are fighting at the forefront in crisis situations such as pandemics.

[COVID-19 Pandemic: Psychosocial impact among healthcare professionals in Tunisia]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the psycho-affective impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health of health professionals in Tunisia and to estimate the associated factors.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study of health professionals carried out from May 2, 2020 to June 30, 2020 in Tunisia. Healthcare professionals included doctors, nurses, dentists and pharmacists. The participants answered a pre-established questionnaire using an electronic "Google Form". This questionnaire gathered demographic data and medical history. It included two psychometric scales, the GAD-7 (General Anxiety Disorder-7) and the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) to assess the prevalence and intensity of anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms respectively.

RESULTS

The study included 203 healthcare professionals. The professionals had a mean age of 30.74±6.33years, 69.5 % were women, and the majority were doctors (77.8 %). Among professionals, 9.4 % were nurses, 7.4 % were dentists, and 5.4 % were pharmacists. A third of the participants 34.3 % worked in departments with Covid-19 patienfor having moderate to severe anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSION

In order to ensure better patient care, early detection of psychiatric disorders and the implementation of specific strategies to ensure better mental health among healthcare professionals are priorities not only during the current pandemic but also in the event of a future similar pandemic.

Frontline Nurses' Experiences of Patient Care in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Phenomenological Study

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is now a major public health crisis in the world. Nurses as key members of professional are exposed the most challenges caused by COVID19. Knowledgeable nurses' experiences can provide appropriate solutions to increase the quality of care and improve the health of the society. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of nurses' caring for patients with COVID-19. Methods: 12 nurses participated in this phenomenological study. We performed purposeful sampling and in-depth face-to-face and semi-structured individual interviews for collecting data. Qualitative data, was analyzed by the 6-step Van Manen hermeneutic phenomenology. Results: After data analysis, the mean (SD) age of study participants was 32.25 (5.62) years and their mean work experience was 9.75 (5.39) years. From the analysis of data obtained from interviews with nurses working in COVID-19 wards, 1050 primary codes, 17 subthemes and 5 themes were extracted. Main themes include: sincere service, patient oppression, emotional instability, suspension and relaxation. Conclusion: Analysis of data in this study suggested that the nurses who care patients in COVID-19 pandemic, faced many professional and psychological challenges. Healthcare managers should plan for psychological support services for the nurses.

Challenges faced by nurse managers during the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review

Background

Nurses have crucial roles in caring for patients and preventing the spread of COVID-19. Therefore, nurse managers have a prominent role during the pandemic, being responsible for the support and training of the nursing team to ensure quality care. While performing their duties in this time of fear and uncertainty, nurse managers face several challenges.

Aim

To identify the challenges faced by nurse managers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

It is an integrative literature review whose search for articles was carried out in Medline, PubMed and Scopus. Qualitative content analysis was used.

Results

Twelve primary research studies were included. Four themes emerged: (1) Workplace demands, (2) Impacts on physical and psychological health, (3) Coping measures and resilience and (4) Recommendations to better support nurse managers in times of crisis. Nurse managers had their roles expanded or completely changed, and they experienced many pressures and stressors in the workplace. Nurse managers also faced physical and psychological health problems. Nurse managers drew on experience; management skills; social media applications; support from family, colleagues and hospital administrators; training, and continuing education to solve the problems that emerged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Organisations should use collaborative, inclusive and participatory practices for better crisis management.

Conclusions

Knowing the experiences of nurse managers during the pandemic period may help health institutions and policymakers better prepare for emergencies.

Mental health and psychosocial problems among laboratory technicians in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in Hebei, China

Objective

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, an increased mental burden has been widely reported among medical health workers such as physicians and nurses. However, data on laboratory technicians exposed to COVID-19 have rarely been published. The aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of psychological symptoms among laboratory technicians and analyze potential risk factors associated with these symptoms.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was performed via the Wenjuanxing platform (a professional online questionnaire platform) (https://www.wjx.cn/mobile/statnew.aspx) to investigate the mental health of laboratory technicians during the COVID-19 pandemic in Hebei, China from October 4, 2021, to November 3, 2021. The online questionnaire included demographic and occupational characteristics data of responders, and the Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL90-R)was used to quantify the magnitude of psychological symptoms among laboratory technicians. Participants' demographic and occupational characteristics were analyzed using descriptive statistical analyses. Chi-square tests were applied to compare the severity of each symptom between two or more groups. A binary logistic regression model was developed to identify the predictors of laboratory technicians' mental health in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and outcomes are presented as odds ratios and 95% confidence interval. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 21 (SPSS, New Orchard Road, Armonk, New York, USA).

Results

A total of 3081 valid questionnaires were collected. Of these 3081 participants, 338 (11.0%) reported a total SCL90-R score >160, which indicated positive psychological symptoms. Among the 338 participants who reported psychological problems, most of them were mild symptoms. Several factors associated with mental health problems in laboratory technicians during COVID-19 were found, which include a history of physical and/or psychological problems (all 10 symptoms p < 0.001), more than 10 years of work experience (depression symptoms: OR = 2.350, p = 0.024; anxiety symptoms: OR = 2.642, p = 0.038), frontline work (depression symptoms: OR = 1.761, p = 0.001; anxiety symptoms: OR = 2.619, p < 0.001; hostility symptoms: OR = 1.913, p = 0.001), participant in more than 3 times large-scale SARS-CoV-2 screenings and more than 36 h per week in SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid testing.

Conclusion

A portion of laboratory technicians reported experiencing varying levels of psychological burden. During the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple interventions should be developed and implemented to address existing psychosocial challenges and promote the mental health of laboratory technicians.

Burnout, depression, anxiety and insomnia among medical staff during the COVID-19 epidemic in Shanghai

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has progressively impacted our daily lives, resulting in unexpected physical and mental stress on medical staff. This study is designed to investigate the levels of and risk factors for burnout, depression, anxiety, and insomnia among medical staff during the COVID-19 epidemic breakout in Shanghai, China.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was conducted from May 1 to May 31, 2022, among medical staff who were on the frontline during the epidemic breakout in Shanghai from different institutions. The MBI-HSS was used to assess burnout, PHQ-9, GAD-7 and ISI were used to evaluate mental status and insomnia.

Results

A total of 543 valid questionnaires were collected. The depersonalization, depression, anxiety, and insomnia scores of medical staff were significantly higher during the pandemic in Shanghai compared with norms, while lack of personal achievement scores were decreased. Working time, work unit, work environment and age are important influencers of burnout, depression and anxiety of medical staff. Long working hours are the most likely causes of burnout and emotional disorders. Medical staff in primary hospitals were most likely to suffer from burnout and emotional disorders, while medical staff in tertiary hospitals had a reduced sense of personal achievement. Young medical staff are prone to negative emotions such as depression and anxiety, while older medical staff have a lower sense of personal accomplishment. Medical staff who were not in the shelter hospitals or designated hospitals were more likely to have problems of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and anxiety than those who were in the shelter hospitals or designated hospitals. Contracting COVID-19 had no effect on medical staff. Emotional exhaustion and depersonalization were positively correlated with anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders while personal achievement was negatively correlated with these factors.

Conclusion

Medical staff in Shanghai had high burnout, depression, anxiety and insomnia levels during the epidemic outbreak in Shanghai. During the COVID-19, medical staff may suffer different psychological problems which should be concerned. Care and supports about burnout, mental health and insomnia need to be taken to promote the mental health of medical staff according to different characteristics of medical staff.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Compliance With COVID-19 Presidential Lockdown Measures: A Cross-Sectional Study

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is one of the most severe global health uncertainties to date. Although significant global effort has been put into implementing COVID-19 pandemic control measures such as lockdowns, travel restrictions, and hygiene precautions, the transmission is expected to resurface once these efforts are discontinued. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with compliance with presidential 53-day lockdown measures in June-July 2021 in northern Uganda. In this cross-sectional study, 587 adult participants (≥18 years old) from northern Uganda were selected using a systematic sampling method. Data collection involved interviewer-administered questionnaires with an internal validity of Cronbach's α = .72. Socio-demographic characteristics of participants were described, and multivariable modified Poisson regressions were performed to assess prevalence ratios between dependent and selected independent variables, with respective P values at 95% confidence intervals. All analyses were conducted using Stata 17.0. Participants' compliance with the presidential lockdown directives was high at 88%(95% CI: 85%-90%). Compliance with the presidential directives was more likely among participants who agreed to the lockdown measures [adjusted Prevalence Ratio, aPR = 1.28 (95% CI: 1.10-1.49; P = .001)] compared to those who did not, and more likely among those who were afraid of death from COVID-19 [aPR = 1.08 (95% CI: 1.01-1.15; P = .023)] than those who did not. However, compliance was less likely among males [aPR = 0.91 (95% CI: 0.86-0.97; P = .002)] compared to females, those aged 35 to 44 years [aPR = 0.87 (95% CI: 0.79-0.97; P = .013)] compared to those less 25 years; and unmarried [aPR = 0.89 (95% CI: 0.82-0.97; P = .011)] compared to the married. Compliance with the COVID-19 presidential lockdown measures in northern Uganda was high. The factors associated with compliance were the fear of death and agreement with presidential lockdown measures. However, compliance was less likely among males, unmarried persons, and persons aged 35 to 44. The authors recommend more community engagements, participation, sensitization, mobilization, and simultaneous application of multiple public health approaches to improve compliance and control of COVID-19.

Influence of social responsibility and pandemic awareness of nursing students on COVID-19 preventive behaviours: a cross-sectional online survey in South Korea

OBJECTIVES

Factors influencing COVID-19 preventive behaviour require exploration to strengthen the response competencies of prehealthcare professionals and reduce the pandemic's impact. This study aimed to identify the level of COVID-19 preventive behaviour among Korean nursing students and to determine the influence of social responsibility and pandemic awareness to present educational strategies for reducing disaster impact.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

As a cross-sectional descriptive survey study using an online questionnaire, the participants were convenience sampled from one online community for nursing students and three nursing colleges located in Seoul, South Korea. The data from 590 participants were analysed by t-test, analysis of variance, Pearson's correlation and linear multiple regression using SPSS.

RESULTS

The factors influencing COVID-19 preventive behaviour were identified to be social responsibility (linear regression coefficient 0.354, 95% CI 0.243 to 0.464), pandemic awareness (linear regression coefficient 0.131, 95% CI 0.025 to 0.237), impact of COVID-19 on daily life (linear regression coefficient 0.085, 95% CI 0.019 to 0.152) and living in Daegu/Gyeong-buk area (linear regression coefficient 0.134, 95% CI 0.024 to 0.244).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings that social responsibility and pandemic awareness are key predictors of COVID-19 preventive behaviour, customised educational programmes and additional studies are recommended for raising social responsibility and pandemic awareness among prehealthcare professionals as a part of disaster response.

Managing COVID-19 in an Australian designated isolation facility: Implications for current and future healthcare crises based on in-depth interviews

Health care workers' (HCWs) lived experiences and perceptions of the pandemic can prove to be a valuable resource in the face of a seemingly persistent Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-to inform ongoing efforts, as well as identify components essential to a crisis preparedness plan and the issues pertinent to supporting relevant, immediate change. We employed a phenomenological approach and, using purposive sampling, conducted 39 semi-structured interviews with senior healthcare professionals who were employed at a designated COVID-19 facility in New South Wales (NSW), Australia during the height of the pandemic in 2020. Participants comprised administrators, heads of department and senior clinicians. We obtained these HCWs' (i) perspectives of their lived experience on what was done well and what could have been done differently and (ii) recommendations on actions for current and future crisis response. Four themes emerged: minimise the spread of disease at all times; maintain a sense of collegiality and informed decision-making; plan for future crises; and promote corporate and clinical agility. These themes encapsulated respondents' insights that should inform our capacity to meet current needs, direct meaningful and in situ change, and prepare us for future crises. Respondents' observations and recommendations are informative for decision-makers tasked with mobilising an efficacious approach to the next health crisis and, in the interim, would aid the governance of a more robust workforce to effect high quality patient care in a safe environment.

The personality of newly graduated and employed nurses: Temperament and character profiles of Swedish nurses

Background

One of the challenges of the 21st century is the high turnover rate in the nursing profession due to burnout and mental illness. From a biopsychosocial perspective, an individual's personality is an important vulnerability-resilience factor that comprises four temperament traits (i.e., a person's emotional reactions) and three character traits (i.e., self-regulation systems). Indeed, different personality profiles are associated to different coping strategies and health outcomes.

Objective

We investigated and mapped the temperament and character of Swedish newly graduated and employed nurses' in relation to the Swedish general population and an age-matched sub-sample.

Design

In this cross-sectional study, nurses self-reported their personality (Temperament and Character Inventory) at the beginning of their employment.

Setting

The data collection was conducted at a hospital in the South of Sweden.

Participants

A total of 118 newly graduated and employed nurses (Mage = 25.95±5.58) and 1,564 individuals from the Swedish general population participated in the study.

Methods

We calculated T-scores and percentiles for all seven personality dimensions using the Swedish norms (N = 1,564). The profiles were calculated by combining high/low percentiles scores in three temperament dimensions (Novelty Seeking: N/n, Harm Avoidance: H/h, and Reward Dependence: R/r) and in the three character dimensions (Self-Directedness: S/s, Cooperativeness: C/c and Self-Transcendence: T/t).

Results

Regarding T-scores, the nurses reported moderately lower Novelty Seeking (> 0.5 SD), slightly higher Harm-Avoidance (about 0.5 SD), moderately higher Persistence (> 0.5 SD) and Reward Dependence (> 0.5 SD), and extremely lower Self-Directedness (> 1 SD). The prevalence of the most common temperament profiles among the nurses (Swedish general population in brackets) were: 39.80% [10.90%] Cautious (nHR), 21.20% [10.90] Reliable (nhR), and 15.30% [16.50%] Methodical (nHr). The prevalence of the most common character profiles among the nurses were: 31.40% [4.90%] Dependent (sCt), 25.40% [14.40%] Apathetic (sct), and 19.50% [8.80%] Moody (sCT).

Conclusions

The analyses of the personality profiles showed that Low Novelty Seeking (79%), high Harm Avoidance (65%) high Reward Dependence (80%), low Self-Directedness (95%), and low Self-Transcendence (60%) were more prevalent among the newly graduated and employed nurses. This may partially explain newly graduated nurses' difficulties at work and high turnover rate. After all, a well-developed character is of special importance when working with patients with serious and terminal illness or under large global crises, such as the current pandemic. Hence, both education at universities and development at work need to be person-centered to reduce stress levels and promote positive self-regulation strategies.

Lived Experiences of Female Nurses with COVID-19 Deaths on Their Watch

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a tremendous effect on health systems, leading to a spike in stress, anxiety, and depression conditions among healthcare workers worldwide. Considering the mental health status of nurses, a pillar of the health system, is crucial for assuring the quality of the healthcare provided during and after pandemics. This study aimed to explore the experiences of female nurses who witnessed their patients dying of COVID-19. Seven female COVID-19 nurses were interviewed in person. Thematic analysis of the respondents' verbatim answers was implemented. Six main themes were identified. Theme 1 illustrates nurses' experience of emotional and psychological trauma as they witnessed their patients with COVID-19 die under their care. Theme 2 reveals aftershock reactions, including somatization, isolation, and emotional disengagement. Theme 3 highlights the hindrances and difficult situations related to the in-hospital care of COVID-19 patients. Theme 4 demonstrates victorious feelings and celebration of the patient's survival. Theme 5 emphasizes the nurse's ability to be calm and recognize the takeaways or lessons they have learned from this phase for their careers and lives. Theme 6 sheds light on nurses' emerging abilities and competencies. This study will hopefully provide a basis for a debriefing program that might be beneficial to the nurses and the health system. This might affect nurses' ability to work closely with patients, cope emotionally with challenges, and fulfil their professional tasks.

Home care nurses' perception of the challenges they faced during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Despite the significant role they play in the whole health care system, home care nurses are not paid the attention they deserve. Besides highlighting their significant role in the health care system, the COVID-19 pandemic also posed several challenges for home care nurses.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to explain the nurses' perception of the challenges of home care during the Covid-19 pandemic.

METHODS

The present study was a qualitative study with a conventional content analysis approach conducted from November 2020 to September 2021. Participants included 16 home care nurses who were purposefully selected based on the eligibility criteria. After obtaining ethical authorization, the data were collected through semi-structured interviews. MAXQDA Version 10 software was used for data mangement. Data analysis was performed using the Granheim and Lundman five-step method. Guba and Lincoln criteria were utilized for trustworthiness.

FINDINGS

The seven main categories obtained in this study included "the onset of a new chapter: from avoidance to relapse", "burnout", "vortex of moral distress", "social stigma", "difficulty in breaking the transmission chain", "care inhibitors related to the patient and family" and "support deficiency: the crisis of home care nursing agencies during the crisis".

CONCLUSION

The results showed that nurses working in home care during the Covid-19 pandemic experienced several challenges in various fields. This study captured the nurses' perception of the challenges of home care during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period of unprecedented change and difficulty. These challenges included lack of support, psychological problems, and dealing with new experiences. Identifying these challenges can help improve the quality of home care nursing and planning in this area.

Job demands and job resources for job satisfaction and quality health outcomes among nurses during COVID-19: A cross-sectional study in Indian health settings

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for the Indian health-care system. Nurses, being vital partners of health care, experience tremendous challenges and job stress to deliver quality health care with limited resources. Drastic surge in health-care demands during COVID-19 pandemic amplified the challenges for nurses, yet it remains a neglected area of concern. Job resources like working conditions, team support, and job demands like workload, stress, and ethical dilemmas greatly affect the job satisfaction and health outcomes in nurses. The study aims to identify the job demands and resources among nurses in connection to COVID 19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A quantitative cross-sectional design was adopted to assess the impact of job demands and resources among registered nurses (N = 102). Those in the age group of 21-58 years and working in regular and COVID-19 patient care were included. Semi-structured interview schedule was used, and psychological impact was assessed through DASS-21 scale. Data analysis was done by descriptive and analytical statistical applications using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 20. The level of significance was P ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

The study findings revealed that 66.67% of the nurses frequently experienced work pressure, 72.55%experienced frequent moral distress, and 80.4%were dissatisfied due to being non-participatory inpatient care decision making. Of all, 67.3% agreed that they hadjob dissatisfaction and 79.4% felt conflicting work climate.

CONCLUSION

Nurses, being key players in the health care, experience constant challenges in the delivery of safe and quality patient care. Addressing the challenges of job stress and promoting job resources can positively impact their job satisfaction, perceived autonomy, job morale, and commitment, which directly influence positive health outcomes.

Ethical dilemmas experienced by nurses while caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: An integrative review of qualitative studies

AIM

This study aimed to identify ethical dilemmas faced by nurses while caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND

Nurses express several concerns during disease outbreaks, some of which are related to ethical dilemmas.

EVALUATION

It is an integrative review in which four databases were searched. Critical appraisal tools and PRISMA guidelines were used. Content analysis was performed to analyse the obtained data.

KEY ISSUES

A total of 14 studies were identified. The results are presented into four categories: concerns with beneficence-nonmaleficence; awareness of need for autonomy; challenges to justice; and coping with ethical dilemmas.

CONCLUSION

While caring for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses often put their own health and that of their families at risk. The ethical dilemmas faced by nurses are mainly caused by the lack of Protective Personal Equipment (PPE), shortages of medical supplies and personnel and the uncertainties that permeate an environment threatened by a new and highly contagious disease such as COVID-19.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

This review provides information that can inspire nurse managers working during the COVID-19 pandemic to support and empower nurses to act in accordance with ethical principles, which is important in order for nurses to protect themselves while providing efficient and effective care.

Nurses' Experiences of Caring for Patients with COVID-19: A Qualitative Study

The purpose of this study was to explore nurses' experiences, abilities, and willingness to care for patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). A descriptive qualitative study was conducted among 12 nurses working with patients with COVID-19. Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants from two national hospitals in Jordan. Semi-structured interviews (45-90 minutes each) with open-ended questions were held via Zoom to collect data. Four major themes emerged from the data analysis. The first theme, uncertainty, consisted of two subthemes: new experience and lack of training. The second theme was related to social stigma by society and other staff members. The third theme of front-line fighters consisted of two subthemes: empowering the main health caregiver and community acknowledgment. The fourth theme was related to challenges and consisted of two subthemes: physical and psychological challenges. At the beginning of the outbreak of COVID-19, the nurses had experienced a lack of certainty, physical and psychological challenges, and social stigmatization, which had negatively affected their willingness and ability to fight the outbreak. However, the nurses reported growing professionally and psychologically with time and becoming more knowledgeable, skillful, powerful, and confident care providers during the pandemic. Being able to fulfill their responsibilities and being acknowledged by others gave the nurses a sense of achievement. Early education and training about COVID-19, clear infection control protocols and guidelines, psychological counseling, and adequate social support are essential steps for enhancing nurses' mental well-being and willingness and ability to fight COVID-19.