Perspectives of Nurses About Factors Affecting Quality of Care at the Solomon Islands National Referral Hospital During the 2016-2017 Dengue Outbreak: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

During the 2016-2017 Solomon Islands dengue outbreak, the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in Honiara was the epicenter for the national response. High-quality nursing care is critical for successful management and this study investigated the factors affecting the quality of nursing care for patients admitted to NRH with dengue. Data were collected using 2 methods: ( a) Focus group discussions with nurses who cared for dengue patients and ( b) a self-administered questionnaire completed by a senior manager. Analysis of qualitative data using a thematic technique found 2 key factors affected care: ( a) training on protocols and guidelines for clinical management and ( b) planning and preparedness of NRH. Quality of care was influenced by lack of basic equipment, transport provided for nursing staff to attend shifts, and confusion between allowances for regular salaried staff and extra staff assisting with the outbreak. Specific attention is needed in future outbreaks to ensure staff understand protocols, follow guidelines, and that adequate equipment is provided.

Seroprevalence of dengue, Zika, chikungunya and Ross River viruses across the Solomon Islands

“…This leads to greater risk of transmission and impact. The large DENV outbreaks experienced in 2013 and 2016–17 did overwhelm the country’s fragile health system [ 62 ].…”