Experiences of Front-Line Medical Staffs Fighting Against Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies

Abstract

Background: To explore the experiences of front-line medical staffs fighting against Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) by synthesizing evidence from a meta-synthesis of qualitative studies.Methods: We conducted a meta-synthesis to integrate qualitative studies on experiences of front-line medical staffs fighting against COVID-19. Six databases were searched from inception to 1 November 2020, including PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health (CINAHL), PsycINFO, and Scopus. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative research appraisal tool was used to appraise the quality of included studies. Thematic synthesis was used to synthesize the data from included studies.Findings: A total of 26 studies were included and six themes were identified: (1) psychological and emotional experience in different stages; (2) social experience; (3) challenges and difficulties; (4) coping styles; (5) demands; (6) growth and transcendence.Interpretation: This meta-synthesis reflects diverse experiences of front-line medical staffs fighting against COVID-19. Appropriate psychological support and social support should be provided to front-line medical staffs. Managers should pay attention to needs of front-line medical staffs for improving professional capability and ensure sufficient supplies to respond to similar crisis.Funding Statement: This study received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public,commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.Declaration of Interests: We declare no competing interests.