Exploring psychological distress experiences among intensive care unit nurses while caring for COVID-19 patients

Ahmad Faisal, Nur Aqeela and Mohamed Ludin, Salizar (2025) Exploring psychological distress experiences among intensive care unit nurses while caring for COVID-19 patients. Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences, 21 (Supp 6). pp. 152-157. ISSN 1675-8544 E-ISSN 2636-9346

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Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused psychological distress among intensive care unit (ICU) nurses, prompting an exploration of their experiences in a Malaysian tertiary hospital caring for COVID-19 patients. The unprecedented demand for intensive care, coupled with the high risk of infection and the emotional toll of patient care, has exacerbated psychological distress levels among these frontline healthcare workers. Method and materials: The study utilised a descriptive qualitative approach through semi-structured interviews with eight registered nurses who have at least six months of experience in COVID-19 patient care. Results: Colaizzi’s seven-step analysis revealed three key themes: The psychological impact of COVID-19, promoting safety and preventing infection, and coping strategies. These themes demonstrate how various factors related to the pandemic contribute to the psychological distress experienced by ICU nurses, reflecting the comprehensive nature of their challenges. The persistent psychological challenges nurses face highlights the necessity of implementing strategies that promote their psychological well-being and resilience. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for support and resources in high-stress clinical environments, recommending improvements in workplace conditions, the development of support mechanisms, and addressing the challenges and contributing factors faced by nurses. Besides that, the information related to nursing curriculum that relates to psychological distress should be added accordingly. Also, future research should be more focus onto psychological distress among ICU community.

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	COVID-19, psychological distress, intensive care unit, nurses, ICU patients
Subjects:	R Medicine > RT Nursing R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT82 Nursing As A Profession R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT86.3 Nurse and patient R Medicine > RT Nursing > RT89 Specialities in nursing
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Nursing Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Critical Care Nursing
Depositing User:	DR Salizar Mohamed Ludin
Date Deposited:	14 Aug 2025 08:15
Last Modified:	14 Aug 2025 08:15
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/122650

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