SARS-CoV-2 outbreak management in nursing homes in Ireland: reflections of COVID-19 response teams from earlier to later waves of the pandemic.

Background: A review of key learnings from the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes in Ireland can inform planning for future pandemics. This study describes barriers and facilitators contributing to COVID-19 outbreak management from the perspective of frontline teams.

Methods: A qualitative study involving ten online focus group meetings was conducted. Data was collected between April and June 2023. The focus group discussions explored the views, perceptions and experiences of COVID-19 Response Team (CRT) members, clinical/public health experts who worked with them, and care professionals who worked in frontline managerial roles during the pandemic. All nine Community Healthcare Organisations and six Public Health Areas in Ireland were represented. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis was carried out using NVivo Pro 20.

Results: In total, 54 staff members participated in focus group meetings. Five themes were developed from a thematic analysis that covered topics related to (1) infection prevention and control challenges and response to the pandemic, (2) social model of care and the built environment of nursing homes, (3) nursing home staffing, (4) leadership and staff practices, and (5) support and guidance received during the pandemic.

Conclusions: The response to the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a steep learning curve, internationally and in Ireland. Preparing better for future pandemics not only requires changes to infection control and outbreak response but also to the organisation and operation of nursing homes. There is a great need to strengthen the long-term care sector's regulations and support around staffing levels, nursing home facilities, governance, use of technology, infection prevention and control, contingency planning, and maintaining collaborative relationships and strategic leadership. Key findings and recommendations from the Irish example can be used to improve the quality of care and service delivery at local, national, and policy levels and improve preparedness for future pandemics, in Ireland and internationally.