AI Article Synopsis
- - The study investigates the experiences of emergency nurses in Australia during the early COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on the challenges posed by wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- - Conducted from January to April 2022, the research involved interviews with 18 nurses and 6 leaders, revealing two main themes: the evolving nature of pandemic responses and the physical/emotional toll on nurses due to PPE.
- - The findings emphasize the need for healthcare leaders to improve PPE supply chains and assess PPE designs to reduce negative impacts on healthcare workers.
Article Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed a need to understand the challenges associated with wearing Personal protective Equipment (PPE). The aim in this study was to explore emergency nurses' experiences early in the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia and the impact of PPE use on their practice.
Methods: An explorative descriptive qualitative study was conducted between January 2022 and April 2022. Eighteen emergency nurses and six leaders participated. Semi-structured interviews (n = 21) and one focus group were conducted. Interview transcripts were analysed using Braun and Clarke's framework.
Results: Two major themes were identified. The first theme was: (1) The shifting ground of the COVID-19 pandemic response. Associated sub-themes were: i) What's the go with PPE today? ii) In the beginning we were scrambling for masks; iii) Emergency is the true frontline. The second theme was: (2) Physical and emotional impacts of emergency nursing work. Sub-themes were: (i) Facing the fear of exposure; (ii) By the end of the shift I am just absolutely spent; iii) Discomfort of wearing PPE impacts on compliance.
Conclusions: Healthcare leaders need to secure PPE supply chains and evaluate the effectiveness and side-effects of different PPE designs to minimise occupational harms associated with prolonged PPE use.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.auec.2023.08.003 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!