Psychological experiences of nurses caring for patients with COVID-19: Integrative review based on qualitative research

Abstract

Aim: To analyse the literature on nurses' psychological experiences caring for COVID-19 patients, focusing on qualitative research.

Design: An integrative review.

Review methods: Whittemore & Knafl's approach was used.

Data sources: Six databases were searched using the terms 'nurses', 'psychological experiences' and 'COVID-19'.

Results: Ten studies were selected and analysed. Five characteristics related to nurses' negative psychological experiences, four characteristics related to positive psychological experiences and seven coping strategies of nurses were identified.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the need for psychological, social, financial and organizational support for nurses to improve mental well-being and the level of nursing care. No Patient or Public Contribution.

Keywords: COVID-19; integrative review; nurses; psychological experiences; qualitative research.