Experience of Hospital Staffs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Phase of Initial Crisis to Phase of Adaptation
Abstract
Introduction: Across the globe, health care staffs on the
frontlines of battle against COVID-19 faced a multifaceted
challenges. The situation was more critical for resource
constraint countries. Although, the concern was focused
in providing protective devices and vaccination, it is more
important to take account of mental health of the hospital
staff. Therefore, this study was aimed to explore the
experience of staff working in a tertiary level government
hospital during the pandemic.
Material and Methods: The study was conducted among
29 staffs of Bheri hospital, Nepalgunj. Data was collected
from 23 to 25 July, 2022 through three focus group
discussions using semi structured focus group discussion
guideline. Qualitative content analysis method was used to
analyze the data.
Results: Content analysis of the data revealed the in-depth
experiences of hospital staff i.e., from the initial stage
of crisis and chaos to the final stage of acceptance and
adaptation. Four main themes were generated: 1) crisis
and fearful working environment; 2) impact on personal,
family, social and professional life; 3) stage of acceptance
and adjustment; 4) future recommendations.
Conclusion: The whole story started with a journey from
the stage of extreme fear, stress, feeling of threats, and
anxiety to the final stage of acceptance and adaptation
including feeling pride and satisfaction. Lack of knowledge
about newly emerged disease and uncertainty of its
prognosis was the reason behind intense fear among the
hospital staffs. Therefore, the support to staffs including
addressing the emotional wellbeing and mental health of
healthcare staffs during any pandemic is very crucial.
Keywords: adaptation, COVID-19, hospital staff, impact,
pandemic