Stigma in the Prolonged Pandemic: Insights from Nurses in Two Indonesian Provinces

Abstract

Background Nurses in Indonesia have faced extraordinary challenges amid the prolonged coronavirus disease pandemic, including stigmatization. However, much is understood about this experience only from the initial period of the pandemic. Objective This study aimed to shed light on the enduring intensity of stigma experienced by nurses in protracted health crises. Materials and Methods This study is a part of a research project titled “Exploration of Stigma Towards Nurses in Indonesia During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” conducted 1.5 years after the pandemic onset. A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Thirty-three nurses from both urban and rural settings who encountered stigma in two Indonesian provinces participated in individual interviews using a semi-structured guide. Thematic analysis through the Framework Method was employed for data analysis. Results & Discussion Three themes emerged: 1) the dynamic of stigma intensity during a prolonged COVID-19 pandemic; 2) nurses’ points of reference when elucidating this intensity; and 3) the perceived contributing factors to the stigma intensity in the protracted pandemic. Participants reported experiencing stronger stigma in the early period of the pandemic. In the later period, some manifestations of stigma persisted, although not as strongly as before. When describing the intensity, nurses often referenced the frequency and strength of emotions stemming from stigmatizing behaviors—such as avoidance, rejection, suspicion, negative rumors, and disparaging remarks about the nursing profession. Eight contributing factors to stigma intensity were identified. Conclusion Stigma intensity during the prolonged pandemic appeared to have similarities and distinctions with the phenomena observed in previous health crises. Continuous evaluation and mitigation efforts are imperative to alleviate the stigma experienced by nurses in protracted health crises. Understanding the contributing factors to the dynamic nature of stigma intensity is crucial for developing targeted interventions.