A qualitative study exploring experiences, attitudes, and wellbeing of university students of a period of restricted movement and self-testing during COVID-19 “Incoming Student Wellbeing and Benefits of Serial COVID-19 testing (ISWAB)” study

Abstract

Background: As part of Ireland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, travellers to Ireland were required to restrict movements on arrival. Worldwide compliance with measures such as quarantine and testing vary and are influenced by factors including an individual’s knowledge of trust in, and attitudes towards these measures. The aim of this study was to explore student experiences of restricted movements after entering Ireland from abroad and to assess the acceptability and feasibility of self-administered SARS-CoV-2 tests. Methods: The Incoming Student Wellbeing and the Acceptability and Benefits of serial COVID-19 testing (ISWAB) study recruited university students who travelled into Ireland and were required by national public health guidance to restrict their movements. As part of the study, students were provided with SARS-CoV-2 self-test kits. This qualitative study explored the students’ attitudes to self-testing and restricted movements using focus groups and interviews. Ethical approval was obtained. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed. Results: Of 41 ISWAB participants, 32 agreed to participate in a follow-up qualitative study providing written consent. One focus group, two group interviews and three individual interviews were conducted in August 2021, on Microsoft Teams. Among the 11 (seven male, four female) students interviewed, self-testing was considered feasible and acceptable. Facilitators of adherence to restrictions included: support with grocery shopping and study periods coinciding with quarantine. Barriers to well-being included: living alone, being an individual who leads a social lifestyle, and the number of days of quarantine completed. Conclusions: This qualitative study demonstrated high levels of compliance with restriction of movement guidelines and self-testing, with limited impact on general well-being. Self-testing for SARS-CoV-2 was found to be practical and achievable for at home use by participants in this study. The findings of this study may inform future self-testing initiatives.