Managing long COVID symptoms and accessing health services in Brazil: A grounded theory analysis

Background

The worldwide community has shown significant interest in researching the management of Long COVID. However, there is scarce evidence about the daily experiences of people living with Long COVID and their insights into the healthcare services provided to them.

Aims

This study aims to understand the experience of Long COVID sufferers with their symptoms and in accessing health services.

Method

We employed Charmaz's grounded theory methodology, informed by constructivism, and applied the COREQ guidelines for qualitative research. Sixty-six Brazilians living with Long COVID participated in the study. The data was collected using semi-structured telephone interviews and analyzed using a constant comparative process.

Findings

The findings refer firstly to the consequences of persistent Long COVID symptoms. Secondly, they describe how the disease trajectory required Long COVID sufferers to reorganize their routines and develop adaptive strategies. Lastly, they reflect a diverse array of both positive and negative interactions inside the healthcare system conveyed by individuals suffering from Long COVID. These elements converge towards the core category of the study: "The limbo of Long COVID sufferers: between the persistence of symptoms and access to health services".

Conclusions

Long COVID is characterized by its varied nature, including a range of physical and emotional repercussions experienced by individuals. There is a need for enhanced comprehension and discourse about Long COVID across several domains, including the general public, policy-making entities, and healthcare professionals. In this sense, the development of specialized services or the reinforcement of existing services to support long COVID sufferers is imperative.

Perceived quality of life and associated factors in long COVID syndrome among older Brazilians: A cross-sectional study

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This paper aims to: (a) determine the personal, sociodemographic, clinical, behavioural, and social characteristics of older Brazilians with clinical evidence of long COVID; (b) evaluate perceived quality of life and determine its association with personal, sociodemographic, behavioural, clinical and social variables; and (c) assess significant predictors of high perceived QoL.

BACKGROUND

Given the inherent vulnerabilities of the ageing process, the older people are an at-risk group for both contagion of SARS-CoV-2 and the perpetuation of residual symptoms after infection, the so-called long COVID or post-COVID syndrome.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional survey design using the STROBE checklist.

METHODS

Brazilian older people with long COVID syndrome (n = 403) completed a phone survey measuring personal, sociodemographic, behavioural, clinical, and social characteristics, and perceived Quality of Life (QoL). Data were collected from June 2021-March 2022. A multiple linear regression model was performed to identify salient variables associated with high perceived QoL.

RESULTS

The mean age of participants was 67.7 ± 6.6 years old. The results of the multivariate regression model showed that race, home ownership, daily screen time, musculoskeletal and anxiety symptoms, and work situation were the significant predictors of QoL among COVID-19 survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

Knowledge about the persistence of physical, emotional, and social symptoms of COVID-19 can help nurses and other healthcare providers to improve the management of survivors, bringing benefits to the whole society.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Given the novelty of long-COVID and its heterogeneous trajectory, interventions focusing on the repercussions and requirements unique to more vulnerable older persons should be developed and these aspects should be included in public health recommendations and policymakers' concerns.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution was required to design, to outcome measures or undertake this research. Patients/members of the public contributed only to the data collection.

Illness Experiences of Brazilian People Who Were Hospitalized Due to COVID-19 and Faced Long COVID Repercussions in Their Daily Life: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study

Long COVID is a multisystem condition that has multiple consequences for the physical, mental, and social health of COVID-19 survivors. The impact of the long COVID condition remains unclear, particularly among middle-aged and older adults, who are at greater risk than younger people of persisting symptoms associated with COVID-19. Therefore, we aimed to understand the experiences of middle-aged and older people who had been hospitalized for COVID-19 and the repercussions of long-term COVID symptoms in their daily lives. A qualitative study was carried out, adopting the framework of the constructivist grounded theory (CGT) proposed by Kathy Charmaz. Fifty-six middle-aged and older adult participants from the southern region of Brazil were recruited. Data were gathered from semi-structured telephone interviews. Concomitantly a comparative analysis was performed to identify categories and codes using the MaxQDA® software (version 2022). Three subcategories were identified: (1) experiencing COVID-19 in the acute phase; (2) oscillating between 'good days' and 'bad days' in long COVID; and (3) (re)constructing identity. These concepts interact with each other and converge upon the central category of this study: recasting oneself to the uniqueness of the illness experience of long COVID. Our findings provided insights related to the disruption in the lives of long COVID-19 sufferers who still live with persistent symptoms of the disease, including physical, social, family, emotional and spiritual repercussions. Likewise, this study may aid in developing friendly and welcoming social environments, lowering stigma and prejudice towards patients with long COVID, and fostering prompt and suitable policy support and mental health care for these individuals.

Striking a new balance: A qualitative study of how family life has been affected by COVID-19

OBJECTIVE

to examine the repercussions of the pandemic on the family system by focusing on the perspective of family members who contracted and experienced COVID-19.

METHOD

an exploratory study with a qualitative approach conducted with 27 individuals who had COVID-19. Data collection took place through telephone interviews that were audio-recorded and guided by a semi-structured instrument. Data analysis was based on an inductive process supported by Reflexive Thematic Analysis.

RESULTS

the pandemic and illness of a family member acted as driving forces generating new and intense movements in the family system. Initially, they noticed negative repercussions such as concerns, fear, anguish, stress, distancing and social isolation. As time progressed and by using technologies to ease communication, they began to perceive positive repercussions such as increased proximity, strengthening of ties, development of new roles and care. The families also identified recovery of a balanced position, with return of certain readjustment in family dynamics and functioning.

CONCLUSION

health professionals need to recognize that the COVID-19 disease has imposed repercussions on family systems, proposing interventions that help families face this moment and more easily recover a balanced position for their functioning.

"Feeling Trapped in Prison" Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perceptions and Practices among Healthcare Workers and Prison Staff from a Brazilian Maximum Security Unit

The COVID-19 pandemic had several repercussions on prison staff, but the currently available evidence has mainly ignored these effects. This qualitative study aimed to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the prison system through the narratives of health and security professionals, using the methodological framework of the constructivist grounded theory proposed by Charmaz. The sample included 10 healthcare workers and 10 security professionals. Data collection took place between October and November 2022 through individual in-depth interviews. The data were analyzed using the MaxQDA software. Three categories of interrelated data emerged: (1) "Confrontation and disruption" caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in the prison system; (2) "Between disinfodemic and solicitude" referring to the tension between information management and the practice of care centered on the needs of inmates; and, finally, (3) "Reorganization and mitigation strategies during the fight against COVID-19". Continuous education and the development of specific skills are essential to enable professionals to face the challenges and complex demands that arise in prison contexts. The daily routines professionals had previously taken for granted were disrupted by COVID-19. Thus, investing in adequate training and emotional support programs is crucial to promote the resilience and well-being of these professionals, ensuring an efficient and quality response to critical events.

Meanings and Experiences of Prisoners and Family Members Affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Brazilian Prison Unit: A Grounded Theory Analysis

Worldwide, the COVID-19 pandemic represented a health emergency for prisons. This study sought to understand the meanings and experiences through the narratives of prisoners and family members affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in the context of a maximum-security state penitentiary complex in southern Brazil. For this purpose, a qualitative study was developed based on the methodological framework of constructivist grounded theory. Data were collected between February and August 2022 through individual in-depth interviews and field notes. The sample consisted of 41 participants: 28 male prisoners, and 13 family members. Guided by the Charmaz method of grounded theory analysis, the study afforded the core category "Feeling trapped in prison during the COVID-19 pandemic" with three interrelated phases: "Triggering", "Escalating", and "Readjustment". The "Triggering" phase refers to COVID-19-related elements or events that triggered certain reactions, processes, or changes in prison. During the "Escalating" phase, participants became overwhelmed by the suffering caused by incarceration and the pandemic crisis. The "Readjustment" phase involved adapting, reorienting, or reformulating previous approaches or strategies for dealing with a specific situation. Prisons faced complex challenges during the pandemic and were forced to prioritize protecting public health. However, the measures adopted must be carefully evaluated, ensuring their needs and that they are based on scientific evidence. The punitive approach can undermine inmate trust in prison authorities, making it difficult to report symptoms and adhere to preventive measures.

Matrix support in specialized care backed by the care model for chronic conditions: evaluative research

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the matrix support for health teams in Specialized Outpatient Care, according to the Chronic Conditions Care Model.

METHOD

Qualitative evaluative research, conducted by the Chronic Conditions Care Model, carried out from February to July 2020. For data collection, interviews were carried out with 21 health professionals, assistance observation and document analysis of the service. Data were analyzed by data triangulation, with the aid of the MAXQDA software, respecting all ethical aspects.

RESULTS

The matrix support provided approximation between Primary and Secondary Care; implemented case management and qualified comprehensive care for people with chronic conditions. Weaknesses in communication and understanding of the theoretical bases of matrix support were obstacles to the proper implementation of matrix strategies.

FINAL CONSIDERATION

Matrix support for specialized health teams qualified the professional care given to people with chronic conditions treated at the service.

The Institutionalisation of Brazilian Older Abused Adults: A Qualitative Study among Victims and Formal Carers

Abuse against elders is acknowledged as a severe and pervasive problem in society. If support services are not tailored to the victims' knowledge or perceived needs, the intervention is likely to be unsuccessful. This study aimed to explore the experience of institutionalisation of abused older people from the perspective of the victims and their formal carers in a Brazilian social shelter. A qualitative descriptive study was performed with 18 participants, including formal carers and older abused persons admitted to a long-term care institution in the south of Brazil. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcripts of semi-structured qualitative interviews. Three themes were identified: (1) personal, relational, and social bonds: broken or weakened; (2) denial of the violence suffered; and (3) from imposed protection to compassionate care. Our findings provide insights for effective prevention and intervention measures in elder abuse. From a socio-ecological standpoint, vulnerability and abuse might be averted at the community and societal levels (e.g., education and awareness of elder abuse) by creating a minimum standard for the care of older individuals (e.g., law or economic incentives). Further study is needed to facilitate recognition and raise awareness among individuals in need and those offering assistance and support.

The Chronic Care Model and its implications for Specialized Outpatient Care

ABSTRACT Objective: to assess the Chronic Care Model implementation in Specialized Outpatient Care and its repercussions for health care. Methods: qualitative evaluative research, conducted by the Chronic Care Model. We used observation techniques, document analysis and interviews with 21 health professionals from specialized care. Analysis was conducted by triangulation, with the aid of MAXQDA software for initial and focused coding. All ethical aspects were respected. Results: professionals recognized that the model reorganized service care and administrative practices, presenting positive repercussions for the health of people assisted. The absence of continuing education for service professionals compromised the complete model implementation. Final considerations: the implementation, even if partial, of the model brings contributions to service improvement. The weaknesses that are still present are compatible with professionals’ difficulty in distancing themselves from the biomedical model.

O Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas e suas implicações para a Atenção Ambulatorial Especializada

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a implementação do Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas na Atenção Ambulatorial Especializada e suas repercussões para a atenção à saúde. Métodos: pesquisa avaliativa qualitativa, conduzida pelo Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas. Foram empregadas as técnicas de observação, análise documental e entrevistas com 21 profissionais de saúde da atenção especializada. A análise foi conduzida pela triangulação, com auxílio do software MAXQDA para as codificações iniciais e focalizadas. Todos os aspectos éticos foram respeitados. Resultados: os profissionais reconheceram que o modelo reorganizou as práticas assistenciais e administrativas do serviço, apresentando repercussões positivas para a saúde das pessoas atendidas. A ausência de educação permanente para os profissionais do serviço comprometeu a completa implementação do modelo. Considerações finais: a implementação, mesmo que parcial, do modelo traz contribuições para a melhoria do serviço. As fragilidades ainda presentes são compatíveis com a dificuldade dos profissionais em se distanciarem do modelo biomédico.

The self-care process of community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic

OBJECTIVES

to understand the self-care process of community-dwelling older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

this is an explanatory study with a qualitative approach based on the constructivist Grounded Theory, carried out with 18 community-dwelling older adults. Data collection took place through interviews and content was analyzed through initial and focused coding.

RESULTS

two categories were obtained: "Building connections to support self-care practices" and "Living with the risk group stigma". From their interaction, the phenomenon "Performing self-care in old age during the COVID-19 pandemic" emerged.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

it was possible to identify how older adults' experiences curing the COVID-19 pandemic had repercussions on their self-care process, being influenced by factors such as information about the disease and the impacts of risk group stigmas.

O processo de autocuidado de idosos comunitários no contexto da pandemia de COVID-19

RESUMO Objetivos: compreender o processo de autocuidado dos idosos da comunidade no contexto da pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo explicativo de abordagem qualitativa, com referencial da Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados construtivista, realizada com 18 idosos comunitários. A coleta de dados ocorreu através de entrevistas, e o conteúdo foi analisado por meio da codificação inicial e focalizada. Resultados: foram obtidas duas categorias: “Estabelecendo conexões para apoiar práticas de autocuidado” e “Convivendo com o estigma de grupo de risco”. A partir da interação dessas, emergiu o fenômeno “Exercendo o autocuidado na terceira idade no contexto da pandemia de COVID-19”. Considerações Finais: foi possível identificar como as vivências dos idosos no período de pandemia de COVID-19 repercutiram no seu processo de autocuidado, sendo influenciados por fatores, como informações sobre a doença e os impactos dos estigmas do grupo risco.

Factors associated with risk related to the use of psychoactive substances by men deprived of their liberty

Objective:

to evaluate the factors associated with risk related to the use of psychoactive substances in male inmates of a prison in a city in the South of Brazil.

Method:

a cross-sectional data from 220 men deprived of liberty, inmates of a provisional custody institution in the State of Paraná, collected with a screening instrument and questionnaire. Binary logistic regression and odds ratio analysis were used to verify associations between risk related to substance use and socio-demographic characteristics of living conditions before incarceration and current incarceration.

Results:

the adjusted model revealed association of consumption with skin color brown/black and yellow, those who had only one parent responsible until age 15, age at first arrest 18 or older, professing religion, working before arrest, owning their own house, living alone, receiving visitors in prison.

Conclusion:

the identified factors are useful to insert effective treatment proposals and reduce the gaps and social vulnerability existing in prison.

Longitudinal treatment of smoking in Primary Health Care: an evaluation research

ABSTRACT Objectives: to evaluate the coordination of the attention for continuing treatment for smoking cessation in the Primary Health Care, from the perspective of users. Methods: the conceptual base was longitudinal care, which is an attribute of the National Policy of Primary Care. The methodological framework was that of an evaluative research, as informed by theory-based evaluation. Data collection used observation with moderate participation in the groups to abandon smoking, intensive interviews with 22 users, and analysis of medical records. The interviews used initial and focused coding, which are analytical stages of the Grounded Theory, with the aid of the MaxQDA® software. Results: the interviewees had a positive evaluation of their treatment for smoking, although they mentioned limitations for medium- and long-term continuity. Final Considerations: the smoking treatment sessions, even if infrequent, were found to be a successful experience for smoking cessation.

PEOPLE DEPRIVED OF THEIR FREEDOM: NURSING DIAGNOSES IN THE LIGHT OF HORTA'S THEORY

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the Nursing diagnoses in men deprived of their freedom, based on the Basic Human Needs framework. Methods: a descriptive and exploratory study with a qualitative approach conducted by means of the Theory of Basic Human Needs framework. Data collection took place from June to November 2019, with individual interviews carried out with 220 men deprived of their freedom. The data were submitted to thematic and content analysis directed to NANDA International Taxonomy II. All ethical aspects were respected. Results: 12 Nursing diagnoses belonging to the categories of health problems and potential risks were identified, grouped and interpreted according to the theoretical framework. Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, overweight, risk-prone health behavior, and ineffective health control are factors that have been related to the psychobiological needs. Involvement in recreational activities, anxiety, ineffective coping, risk of violence directed toward others, disrupted family processes, and risk of ineffective relationships were related to the psychosocial needs, while the risk of impaired religiosity was related to the psychospiritual needs. Conclusion: the absence of Nursing diagnoses in the health promotion category signals the need for actions that provide quality of life to these people.

Nursing diagnoses in elderly people with diabetes mellitus according to Orem’s Self-Care Theory

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify nursing diagnoses and conditioning factors of self-care in older adults with diabetes mellitus, in the light of Orem’s Theory of Self-Care. Methods: Exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach, conducted with the theoretical framework of Orem’s Theory of Self-Care. It was developed with 12 older people with diabetes, in a country’s southern municipality, between October and November 2019. For data collection, it was used individual interviews and focus groups. The data was submitted to thematic and content analysis directed to taxonomy II of NANDA International. Results: Twenty nursing diagnoses related to universal self-care requirements and health deviations were identified. All diagnoses were anchored in the supportive-education nursing system. Final considerations: The development of the disease and the consequences of chronic hyperglycemia were poorly recognized by the elderly, interfering with low adherence to self-care practices and disease control.

Factores asociados al riesgo relacionado con el uso de sustancias psicoactivas por hombres privados de libertad

Resumen Objetivo: evaluar los factores asociados al riesgo relacionado con el uso de sustancias psicoactivas en hombres internados en una prisión, en un municipio en el Sur de Brasil. Método: datos transversales de 220 hombres privados de libertad, internados en una institución de custodia provisional, en el estado de Paraná, recolectados con instrumento de rastreo y cuestionario. Se utilizó el análisis de regresión logística binaria y la razón de chances para verificar asociaciones entre el riesgo relacionado con el uso de sustancias psicoactivas y las características sociodemográficas, de las condiciones de vida antes del encarcelamiento y del encarcelamiento actual. Resultados: el modelo ajustado reveló asociación del consumo con: el color de la piel marrón/negra y amarilla; aquellos que tuvieron apenas uno de los padres responsables hasta los 15 años de edad; edad de la primera prisión con 18 años o más; profesar religión; trabajar antes de la prisión; residencia propia; vivir solo; y, recibir visitas en la prisión. Conclusión: los factores identificados son útiles para introducir propuestas de tratamientos eficaces y reducir los vacíos y la vulnerabilidad social existentes en la prisión.

Diagnósticos de enfermagem em idosos institucionalizados vítimas de violência

Resumo Objetivo identificar os diagnósticos de enfermagem em idosos institucionalizados vítimas de violência. Método estudo exploratório descritivo qualitativo, conduzido pelo referencial das Necessidades Humanas Básicas, desenvolvido em instituição de longa permanência. A coleta de dados ocorreu de maio a junho de 2020, com informações obtidas em prontuários clínicos. Os dados foram submetidos à análise temática e de conteúdo dirigida à taxonomia II da NANDA Internacional. Todos os aspectos éticos foram respeitados. Resultados foram analisados 14 prontuários e identificados 25 diagnósticos de enfermagem, dos quais 12 se relacionaram às necessidades psicobiológicas, 13 às psicossociais e 1 às psicoespirituais. Quanto à categoria diagnóstica, 20 se relacionaram aos problemas de saúde, 4 aos riscos potenciais e 1 à promoção da saúde. Conclusão e implicações para a prática a exposição à violência intrafamiliar, a presença de condições crônicas e a institucionalização revelaram diagnósticos que demonstraram fragilidades. Destaca-se a demanda de intervenções relacionadas à motivação dos idosos em alcançar seu bem-estar, direcionando a assistência de acordo com necessidades psicobiológicas, psicossociais e psicoespirituais, com foco na recuperação da saúde do idoso e de sua dignidade. Utilizar os diagnósticos de enfermagem para construir o processo de cuidado em idosos institucionalizados amplia a assistência e possibilita um olhar diferenciado às vítimas de violência.

PESSOAS PRIVADAS DE LIBERDADE: DIAGNÓSTICO DE ENFERMAGEM À LUZ DA TEORIA DE HORTA

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar os diagnósticos de enfermagem em homens privados de liberdade, com ancoragem no referencial das Necessidades Humanas Básicas. Métodos: estudo exploratório descritivo de abordagem qualitativa conduzido pelo referencial da Teoria das Necessidades Humanas Básicas. A coleta de dados ocorreu nos meses de junho a novembro de 2019, com entrevistas individuais realizadas com 220 homens privados de liberdade. Os dados foram submetidos à análise temática e de conteúdo dirigida à taxonomia II da NANDA Internacional. Todos os aspectos éticos foram respeitados. Resultados: foram identificados 12 diagnósticos de enfermagem pertencentes às categorias de problemas de saúde e riscos potenciais, agrupados e interpretados conforme o referencial teórico. Estilo de vida sedentário, obesidade, sobrepeso, comportamento de saúde propenso a risco e controle ineficaz da saúde são fatores que se relacionaram às necessidades psicobiológicas. Já o envolvimento em atividades de recreação diminuído, ansiedade, enfrentamento ineficaz, risco de violência direcionada a outros, processos familiares interrompidos e risco de relacionamento ineficaz se mostraram relacionados às necessidades psicossociais, ao passo que o risco de religiosidade prejudicada apresentou relação com as necessidades psicoespirituais. Conclusão: a ausência de diagnósticos de enfermagem da categoria de promoção da saúde sinaliza a necessidade de ações que propiciem qualidade de vida a essas pessoas.

Reorganização do serviço ambulatorial de referência para condições crônicas durante a pandemia da COVID-19

Resumo Objetivo Relatar a experiência da equipe de saúde da atenção especializada na reorganização do processo de trabalho para a continuidade do cuidado às pessoas com condições crônicas complexas durante a pandemia da covid-19. Métodos Relato de experiência vivenciada em ambulatório do Estado do Paraná entre março e julho de 2020. O serviço ambulatorial em questão adota o Modelo de Atenção às Condições Crônicas para o atendimento de gestantes, crianças, idosos, pessoas com hipertensão arterial, diabetes mellitus e transtornos mentais, estratificadas como condições complexas. Resultados O avanço da pandemia no Brasil implicou a necessidade de planejar a reorganização da atenção ambulatorial especializada, definindo atividades assistenciais presenciais no serviço, atividades itinerantes nos municípios e uso de tecnologias remotas para assistência e matriciamento. Conclusão e Implicações para a prática O rigor no cumprimento das recomendações sanitárias possibilitou a reorganização dos processos de trabalho no serviço, com modificações que permitiram a continuidade do cuidado de pessoas com condições crônicas complexas. O planejamento e o desenvolvimento das modificações no serviço foram fundamentais para manter o acompanhamento e o monitoramento da saúde das pessoas com condições crônicas complexas em meio a pandemia, minimizando as descompensações e, consequentemente, diminuindo a necessidade de essas pessoas utilizarem os serviços de saúde.

Conicity index in people with hypertension followed in the Brazil's Family Health Strategy

OBJECTIVES

to analyze the conicity index in people with hypertension followed in the Brazil's Family Health Strategy.

METHODS

cross-sectional study conducted in a medium-sized municipality located in the state of Paraná. Data collection took place in the first semester of 2016. using an adapted and validated instrument. which addresses attributes of Primary Health Care. Sociodemographic and anthropometric variables and blood pressure were used in the study. The analysis of variance and linear regression was used to analyze the variables.

RESULTS

a total of 417 people participated in the study. most were women. elderly. married. with less than eight years of education and retired. Conicity index was prevalent in most of the study population. being significantly associated with the group of people with inadequate blood pressure control and high anthropometric parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

most of the study participants had altered conicity index. especially those with inadequate blood pressure control.