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A mixed methods study: The grief experience of registered nurses working on the frontlines during the COVID-19
Loretta Alexia Williams1, Dwayne Accardo1, Jennifer Dolgoff1
1The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Nursing, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
Aim And Objective:
The purpose of this study was to generate a conceptual definition and theory of grief for nurses working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic using grounded theory methodology.
Background:
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on nurses working on the frontlines. The increasing flow of diagnosed COVID-19 cases, diverse unknowns and demands in the treatment of patients with COVID-19, and depression related to countless deaths can trigger grief experiences.
Design:
A mixed methods approach, including the qualitative method of grounded theory and a quantitative 30-question survey, was used in this study.
Methods:
Eight focus group sessions were conducted with registered nurses working on the frontlines during the pandemic. Sessions were audio recorded and analysed using constant comparative data analysis. Following the interviews, a survey including demographics and self-report inventories was completed by participants. The COREQ checklist was used to assess study quality.
Results:
Major concepts that emerged include 'facing a new reality', 'frustrations', 'stress' and 'coping'. Core concepts were combined into a conceptual definition of grief and a grounded theory of the experience of nurses working on the frontlines during the pandemic. Cross comparisons of qualitative and quantitative findings were made and compared with the literature.
Conclusions:
This study provides a better understanding of the grief experience of nurses working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is necessary to recognise professional grief and develop intervention strategies that lead to grief reconciliation.
Relevance To Clinical Practice:
Findings provide useful insights for healthcare administrators to provide support and develop interventions to reduce frustrations and stress of frontline registered nurses.
Patient Or Public Contribution:
This study design involved registered nurses participating in focus group sessions. Participants detailed their experience working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic with patients, family and hospital administration.
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