Assessing Healthcare Providers' Preparedness for Managing COVID-19 Patients: A Mixed-methods Study

Globally, the preparedness of frontline healthcare providers (HCPs) to deliver timely and appropriate medical care has emerged as a significant concern. The training of HCPs in containment measures is considered pivotal in elevating the quality of care for COVID-19 patients while simultaneously mitigating the risk of viral transmission to both fellow patients and HCPs. This study investigates the impact of training on HCPs readiness to manage COVID-19 patients in a tertiary hospital in Oman.

Employing a mixed-method design, we extended invitations to HCPs at the Royal Hospital in Muscat using electronic forms. We collected data about HCPs demographics, their comprehension of the hospital's core objectives and protocols, and any knowledge acquired through official training or self-directed study. Our analytical approach encompassed descriptive and univariate statistical methods, complemented by thematic analysis for the qualitative component.

Our survey acquired responses from a total of 241 individuals. Among the respondents, 67.6% were female nurses, and 49.8% were aged between 31-40 years old. Significant differences were observed concerning gender (p = 0.018 and p = 0.001) and profession (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) with the total score in awareness and knowledge, respectively. Stress and fear of handling confirmed or potentially contagious patients negatively impacted nearly half of the HCPs, with doctors and nurses reporting this effect significantly. Remarkably, 61.0% of HCPs expressed that their confidence in managing COVID-19 cases was positively influenced by their faith in national pandemic plans.

While the hospital's protocols and procedures were well comprehended, the lack of preparedness and skills training for managing highly contagious patients resulted in diminished confidence and heightened stress. To fortify their ability to respond to future outbreaks and work with resilience and confidence, HCPs require ongoing, comprehensive, and hands-on training.