Lived Experiences of Nurses During Quarantine: A Qualitative Study from North India

Abstract

Introduction: The literature related to quarantined nurses’ lived experiences working in nondesignated COVID settings is scarce. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of quarantined nurses after accidental exposure in nondesignated COVID areas in a tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: It was a qualitative phenomenological study. Snowball sampling technique was used to interview 11 nurses. The in-depth interviews were conducted telephonically using a prevalidated interview guide during October 2020 to February 2021. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and translated to English. Thematic analysis was done using Colaizzi’s phenomenological method. The findings depicting similar codes were grouped into subthemes and themes. The findings are presented thematically with corresponding participant quotes. Results: Out of 11, six (55%) participants were quarantined in home and five (45%) in the institutional facilities. The major themes that emerged were: “psychological reactions,” “quarantine: the positive aspect,” and “support system” among the home quarantined nurses. The major themes in the institutional facility quarantined nurses were: “psychological reactions,” “poor quality of institutional quarantine facility,” “quarantine: the positive aspect,” “support system,” and “quarantine: a learning experience.” The nurses experienced various negative emotions during quarantine. Conclusion: To safeguard the physical and mental health of nurses, comprehensive support should be provided by the authorities in terms of availability of basic amenities and quality services during quarantine. Regular training and constant motivation are needed to promote their mental preparedness for crisis management.