The Challenges of Nurse Redeployment and Opportunities for Leadership During COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Abstract Objective: Literature has previously shown that healthcare staff redeployment has been widely implemented to build capacity, with little focus on nurses. This study aims to manage redeployment more effectively by capturing and scrutinizing nurses’ redeployment experiences. Methods: A cross-sectional short and structured interview was conducted. Data was analyzed using Braun and Clarkes 6 Step Thematic Analysis approach. Results: 55 interviews were conducted predominantly from women (85%, N = 47), over the age of 45 years (45%, N = 25), who were in the role of Specialist Nurse or Staff Nurse (78%, N = 43). 5 critical themes emerged: willingness to work in redeployed role, poor communication, stress and anxiety, feelings of being unsupported and abandoned, and positive experiences despite challenging circumstances. Conclusion: Nurses in redeployed roles were susceptible to stress and anxiety and were seeking dedicated leadership as they worked during a pandemic with the additional challenge of unfamiliar workspaces and colleagues. Nurses play a major role in the resilience of healthcare service, which cannot be achieved without a comprehensive resilience strategy. Healthcare organisations are required to develop strategies, policies, and enforcement measures to ensure that their staff are well empowered and protected not just during potential redeployment but also in their daily operations.