Experiences of Executive Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Globally, the COVID-19 epidemic has complicated the delivery of healthcare and its administration. It has been difficult for the executive nurses to handle a crisis with few resources. To explore the experiences of executive nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic process Material and Methods: Eight frontline nurse managers at a university hospital in Turkey were the subject of a qualitative descriptive study. Semi-structured interviews were done between April 20 and May 24, 2022. Reporting was done using the COREQ checklist. Results:Four interrelated themes (with sub-themes) were identified: we needed to be fast; everything has changed; we had to stand and safe environment for everyone. Conclusions: During the pandemic, the aim of nurse managers was to provide nurses with knowledge, experience and psychosocial support while they were also experiencing stress, exhaustion and panic. Training and planning should