The experiences of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 crisis in Lagos, Nigeria: A qualitative study.

Introduction: The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has overwhelmed health systems globally. Healthcare workers (HCWs) are faced with numerous challenges during the COVID-19 response. In this study, we aimed to describe the experiences of HCWs during the COVID-19 outbreak in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods: We conducted a qualitative study on the experiences of frontline HCWs at the COVID-19 isolation centers in Lagos, Nigeria using purposive and snowballing sampling techniques. An in-depth interview which lasted for 25-40 minutes for each respondent was conducted among ten medical officers and four nurses between 15 June and 13 July 2020. We analyzed data using Colaizzi's phenomenological method.

Results: Respondents' age ranged between 29 and 51 years with a median age of 36.5 years. Four themes were identified from data analysis. In the first theme, "COVID-19 care: A call to responsibility", HCWs expressed optimism regarding COVID-19 care, and described the work conditions at COVID-19 isolation centers. In the second theme, "Challenges encountered while caring for COVID-19 patients - coping strategies", HCWs experienced difficulties working in a new environment and with limited resources. They however coped through the available support systems. Regarding the "Experiences in COVID-19 care", the feelings of HCWs varied from pleasure on patients' recovery to distress following patients' demise. On the "Necessities in COVID-19 care", HCWs identified the need for increased psychosocial support, and adequate provision of material and financial support.

Conclusions: HCWs at COVID-19 isolation centers need to be assured of a safe working environment while providing them with a strengthened support system.