Experiences of operating room nurses in military hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

The operating room, being a unique department, has encountered specific challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges can impact the performance of operating room nurses. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the experiences of operating room nurses in military hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This qualitative study utilized contractual content analysis in Iran in 2021. Purposive sampling with maximum diversity was employed for participant selection. Data was gathered through individual, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 12 operating room nurses in Tehran.

Twelve operating room nurses, with an average age of 32.31±5.23 years, participated in the study. Analysis of the data revealed three main categories: "disruption of the balance of interactions and relationships with the patient," "the stressful intersection of roles," and "the increase in the volume of tasks and the lack of life and job security."

This study highlighted the fears and anxieties experienced by military operating room nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic, including concerns about contracting the disease, increased workload, lack of support, and inadequate post-infection facilities. The findings can be valuable for hospital authorities in developing efficient planning and effective management strategies during the ongoing pandemic.