Nurses’ experience during the COVID-19 pandemic and consequences on their relationship with patients. Consensual qualitative research

Abstract

Much the same as other healthcare services, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, psychiatric hospitals implemented significant and rapid changes in the organization of their services. The aim of this research study is to describe and understand the experience of nurses and nursing supervisors in psychiatric units in the light of the occupational transformations caused by the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the impact of these events on their relationships with patients. A consensual qualitative research study based on Hill's model was implemented. Sixteen individual interviews were conducted with eleven nurses and five nursing supervisors. The themes discussed can be grouped into five areas: aspects of the caregiving relationship, positive aspects of caregivers' experiences, negative aspects of caregivers' experiences, reflections on the post-pandemic era, and the role of supervisors. These five areas can be subdivided into 11 categories and 31 subcategories. Values, attitudes, and behaviors centered around a humanistic caring approach are identified as integral to future development. They appear to be elements of both the transformation process and the desired outcome. In light of these findings, it seems that an immediate rethink of the organization of care is needed.