Struggling, Adapting, and Holding Each Other Up: A Qualitative Study of Oncology Nurses During the First Year of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Purpose: To explore the experience of oncology nurses during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Participants & Setting: 21 RNs, advanced practice RNs, and physician associates from inpatient and ambulatory care settings at a comprehensive cancer center in the northeastern United States.

Methodologic Approach: A qualitative study using interpretive description was conducted through semistructured interviews. Data were recorded and transcribed verbatim, reviewed for accuracy, and coded into themes following an iterative process of analysis.

Findings: The theme of "Doing It Together: Struggling, Adapting, and Holding Each Other Up" describes the experience of oncology nurses during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. The following three themes provide further insight: "Struggling With Constant Change and Uncertainty," "Managing Workload Intensity," and "Experiencing Emotional Distress." As the year progressed, "Identifying Benefits and Finding Hope" began to emerge.

Implications For Nursing: The findings suggest a need for programs to help nurses cope with the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health and well-being resources, and nursing guidelines for telehealth and relocation to other units.