Experiences of nurses diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovered: A qualitative research

Aim: This study aimed to explain the feelings and experiences of nurses who survived COVID-19 in their care and recovery processes, based on Watson's theory of human caring. Background: The COVID-19 pandemic was an extraordinary time when nurses both took care of their patients and dealt with their illness by catching the disease themselves. In this process, nurses who contracted the disease experienced the fear of transmitting the disease to their relatives. Method: A qualitative descriptive research design was used in this study. The sample consists of 15 nurses selected by the convenience sampling method and diagnosed with COVID-19 and recovered. The data were collected in face-to-face interviews using the individual in-depth interview method through a semi-structured interview form. A thematic analysis was performed on the data according to the 10 carative factors of Watson's theory of human caring. Results: It was determined that the spiritual and professional difficulties experienced by nurses who recovered from COVID-19 during the disease and symptom management process were the fear of death, infecting their family members and losing them, and the importance of life. Conclusion: It is considered that care practices based on Watson's theory of human caring will be beneficial in the management of these processes. Implications for Nursing Management Nurses diagnosed with COVID-19 should be supported by the nursing management during their illness so that their negative experiences will not be repeated. Watson's theory of human caring can help eliminate this sense of fear and loss.