Healthcare workers’ experiences in long-term care facilities during cohort quarantine for the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea: a qualitative study

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the experiences of healthcare workers in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) during cohort quarantine for the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea.Design A qualitative study using thematic analysis.Setting and participants Ten workers from two LTCFs that underwen...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Ju Young Park, Insook Lee
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMJ Publishing Group 2024-12-01
Series:BMJ Open
Online Access:https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/14/12/e089309.full
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Summary:Objectives This study aimed to investigate the experiences of healthcare workers in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) during cohort quarantine for the COVID-19 pandemic in South Korea.Design A qualitative study using thematic analysis.Setting and participants Ten workers from two LTCFs that underwent cohort quarantine due to COVID-19 in South Korea, including direct-care staff and administrators.Methods In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted from 23 April to 7 May 2021. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach.Results Five main themes emerged: (1) adapting to unprecedented infection control measures; (2) enduring prolonged cohort quarantine situation; (3) confronting social stigma and discrimination; (4) developing organisational resilience; and (5) recognising the need for systemic support.Conclusions This study provides insights into the multifaceted experiences of LTCF workers during the COVID-19 quarantine. The findings suggest the need for enhanced infection control training, mental health support, and systemic changes to better prepare LTCFs for any future pandemic.
ISSN:2044-6055