The Ever-Changing Work Environment During COVID-19: Nurses' Experiences in the Early Phase

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Pandemic Response
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted global healthcare systems.
• Nurses were at the forefront, experiencing unprecedented challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the lived experiences of nurses during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify key themes and challenges faced by nurses in a crisis environment.

Main Methods:

• A phenomenological approach was employed.
• Data collection included demographic information, written narratives, and digital images from 161 participants.

Main Results:

• The overarching theme identified was an 'ever-changing environment'.
• Six distinct subthemes emerged, detailing the complexities of the nurses' experiences.
• Participants reported significant challenges in adapting to the dynamic pandemic landscape.

Conclusions:

• Nurses require specialized support and education to effectively manage the demands of a constantly evolving crisis.
• Understanding nurses' experiences is vital for developing targeted interventions and improving healthcare resilience.