Factors Associated with Nurses' Nursing Intention toward COVID-19 Patients

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors related to nurses' intentions toward Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Methods: The participants were 227 nurses, from three hospitals in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do, Korea, who cared for patients directly. Based on the theory of planned behavior, nursing intention, key factors, and belief factors were measured using the modified nurses' intention to care for patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome. Anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and depression by the Korean-Beck Depression Inventory. Data were collected via an online survey and analyzed using multiple regression. Results: The mean of the nursing intention scores for COVID-19 patients was 0.54±1.41. The predictors of nursing intention were perceived behavioral control (β=.38), attitude toward behavior (β=.28), and normative beliefs (8=.13) (Adj. R2=.49, F=27.89, p<.001). However, anxiety and depression did not affect nursing intentions. Conclusion: To effectively manage the current COVID-19 pandemic, institutional and educational strategies must be developed to help nurses enhance their nursing practices and adopt a positive attitude toward the care of patients infected with COVID-19. © 2021 Korean Society of Adult Nursing. All Rights Reserved.