Affiliation:
1. Department of Education Hatay Mustafa Kemal University Hospital Hatay Turkey
2. Faculty of Health Science, Department of Nursing, Medical Diseases Nursing Division Gaziantep University Gaziantep Turkey
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundThe 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.ObjectiveThe 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.MethodIn 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.FindingsFrom 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.ConclusionsThe 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.