Challenges Faced by Dialysis Unit Staff During COVID-19 Times: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: The Coronavirus has caused an epidemic affecting the whole world for the last two years and has been spreading steadily. The hemodialysis patients are at high risk because of their lowered immunity status. The dialysis staff is also at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 as these patients come for twice/thrice weekly treatment sessions. Objectives: This study was done to study the hardships and problems afflicting the dialysis staff during the infections caused by COVID-19 in a rural hemodialysis unit. Methods: This study setting was the hemodialysis unit located in a rural hospital in Pondicherry, India. Free listing and pile sorting were done to study the structure and salient problems as felt in the cognitive domain by the dialysis team. Smith's S value was calculated for a free listing. Multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis were conducted to do pile sorting of data. Data were analyzed using Anthropac 4.983/X. Group interviews were carried out to get in-depth information and validate the findings obtained from the free list and pile sorting exercise. Results: Twelve salient items were obtained from the free list. Three broad domains emerged: the absence of personal safety, shortage of personal safety equipment, and presence of logistical and operational problems. Surprisingly, RT-PCR testing was not perceived to be of importance for them. Conclusions: Accepting the true feelings, fears, and needs of the dialysis staff, helping to tackle the impediments to personal safety, and the lack of personal safety equipment in a dialysis unit during COVID-19 outbreak are vital in ensuring personal safety and improving working dynamics.