Nursing Experience of New Nurses Caring for COVID-19 Patients in Military Hospitals: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This qualitative study explored the experiences of new nurses with less than one year of clinical experience in caring for COVID-19 patients in a military hospital. In-depth interviews were conducted with six new nurses working in a negative-pressure isolation unit of the Armed Forces Capital Hospital. Data were analyzed using the phenomenological method proposed by Colaizzi, and 12 themes were derived and classified into four clusters: burden of nursing in isolation units; hardship of nursing critically ill patients; efforts to perform nursing tasks; positive changes through patient care. The participants were anxious while caring for COVID-19 patients with severe illness due to a lack of clinical experience. Furthermore, the wearing of heavy personal protective equipment impeded communication with patients, leading to physical and psychological exhaustion. However, they tried to utilize their own know-how and provide the best nursing care, resulting in them gaining confidence. Participants were able to think critically and took pride in being military nursing professionals. This study is meaningful as it provides insight into the experiences of new military nurses who were rapidly dispatched during a national medical crisis. The results can be applied to develop future strategies aimed at improving new nurses’ competency in military hospitals.