Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences of nurses who were
diagnosed with coronavirus-19 and received treatment from their
perspective. Background: Coronavirus-19 has caused many people to become
sick and die. Nurses who struggle with coronavirus-19 in the forefront
have been physically and psychologically influenced by the pandemic, and
many nurses were diagnosed with coronavirus-19 and even died. Methods: A
descriptive qualitative approach was used. The study was conducted with
18 nurses diagnosed with coronavirus-19, and the data were collected
using a semi-structured individual interview form. The data were
analysed with the thematic analysis technique using Meleis et al.’s
mid-range theory on experiencing transitions. COREQ Checklist was
followed as EQUATOR Checklist. Results: Nurses’ experiences when
diagnosed with coronavirus-19 have been examined under 6 main themes as
emotions experienced when finding out to be coronavirus-19 positive, the
emotions during the quarantine process, posttraumatic growth, methods of
coping with coronavirus-19, nursing care after coronavirus-19 treatment,
and metaphors about coronavirus-19. Conclusion: The study revealed that
nurses diagnosed with coronavirus-19 experienced fear, loneliness,
frustration, depressed mood, exclusion, and fear of death. Besides,
after coronavirus-19 treatment, they experience posttraumatic growth
such as spiritual change, changes in the relationship with others,
changes in priorities, and appreciation of the meaning of life. They
cope with adverse situations caused by coronavirus-19 by getting social
support, positive thinking, paying attention to nutrition, and engaging
in domestic activities. Besides, they perform their nursing care after
coronavirus-19 with more empathy and emphasizing the psychological
aspect of care. Relevance to clinical practice Being diagnosed with
coronavirus-19 has caused the nurses to be negatively affected
psychologically (fear, depression, loneliness, etc.). It is recommended
to provide professional psychological counselling services to nurses
during the pandemic and maintain these services 24/7.