The Experiences of the Operating Room Nurses in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

This study was conducted to examine the experiences of operating room nurses care for COVID-19 positive and suspected patients during the surgical process. Material and Methods: This study was conducted qualitatively with operating room nurses between 01-31 May 2021. 22 operating room nurses were interviewed face-to-face-in-depth in the break room of the operating room. Data were analyzed by Colaizzi's seven-step method. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used in reporting this research. Results: Three themes were determined: Difficulties experienced in the operating room during the COVID-19 epidemic, effect of the COVID-19 epidemic on the operating room organization and the effect of the risk of contamination on the surgical team communication. 7 sub-themes were identified as fear of catching and transmitting the infection, equipment problems, difficulties in the management of emergency cases, operation and working times, changes in the patient transfer line and operating room, social isolation and reduced communication, and fear of medical error. Conclusion:This study reveals difficulties experienced by nurses due to COVID-19, effect of the pandemic on the operating room organization and nurses, and effect of the risk of transmission on the surgical team communication. Nurses have fear of catching and transmitting infection in the operating room, lack of equipment, and experience anxiety in managing emergency cases. The pandemic caused changes in the organization of the operating room. Besides, nurses experienced social isolation and team communication decreased, the use of equipment disrupted communication with the surgical team, and this situation led to fear of medical error.