Date of Conferral
5-2-2024
Date of Award
May 2024
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Nursing
Advisor
DONNA BAILEY
Abstract
: The outbreak of COVID-19 caused unparalleled pressure that brought healthcare facilities and healthcare staff to their knees across the globe, causing multiple deaths and economic despondency. Several studies have documented the effects of COVID-19 on healthcare workers and facilities, but none have addressed the problem from the psychological perspectives of medical-surgical nurses, especially in developing countries. This study explored the psychological experiences of medical-surgical nurses who cared for COVID-19 patients in developing countries. The theoretical foundation that informed this study was the Schachter-Singer’s theory of emotions. A descriptive qualitative design used purposeful sampling to interview 10 medical-surgical nurses. Their responses were thematically coded and organized into descriptions. Results revealed uniform perceptions of the fear of exposure to disease and death, social isolation, and quality of care. Findings highlighted the need for policymakers and healthcare facilities management to put in place effective strategies and future pandemic preparedness policies as well as provision of basic medical resources such as personal protective equipment, oxygen, and beds, which can improve healthcare delivery and the general welfare of society, thus bringing positive social change.
Recommended Citation
DAPILAH, CECILIA, "Psychological Experiences of Medical-Surgical Nurses Who Cared for COVID-19 Patients." (2024). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 15702.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/15702
