A narrative inquiry of nursing experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

This research focused on nursing care during the early phase of the Covid-19 pandemic. The experiences of 18 nurses and 3 nurse practitioners were analyzed through qualitative narrative inquiry. Riessman’s analytic approach guided identification of thematic similarities. The nurses in this study were emotionally exhausted by the rapid rise in patients and the daily death toll. The challenge of so many gravely ill cases required creative adaptations to address overcrowding and lack of resources. Teamwork proved immeasurable. Nurses advocated for their patients and families and were proud to have worked in this emergency. Nurses dealt with stressors by maintaining prior coping practices and developing new ones and relied on support from their family, hospital and community. A common objective was to establish and maintain the highest-possible levels of care in spite of challenging conditions. Proficiencies developed in coping with unprecedented challenges can help plan for future healthcare crises.