Abstract
Introduction: COVID-19 has severely impacted nursing services, infecting thousands of
critical care registered nurses (RNs) with potentially fatal respiratory infections. Studies in
Saudi Arabia suggest psychological implications, with loneliness and social isolation linked to
higher depression and anxiety levels. Pandemic preparedness should focus on workforce
protection and mental well-being promotion.
Research purpose: The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of the lived
experiences of critical care RNs who contracted COVID-19 in an academic hospital in Saudi
Arabia, with the aim of formulating recommendations to facilitate their empowerment,
maximise resilience, and help the profession thrive post-pandemic.
Research design and methods: This study used a qualitative research design to understand
the experiences of critical care RNs who contracted COVID-19 in an academic hospital in
Saudi Arabia. The researcher used an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach,
employing purposeful sampling and descriptive phenomenological methods. Unstructured
interviews were conducted, and the data were analysed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method.
The four stages of Husserl’s descriptive phenomenology, namely bracketing, intuiting,
analysing, and interpreting, were applied. Trustworthiness was maintained to ensure accurate
results.
Findings: The data analysis revealed three themes: 1) Physical isolation led to loneliness and
psychological separation, lacking emotional support and freedom of choice; 2) Reintegration
into the work environment increased stress and loneliness, while 3) COVID-19 exposure
provided essential insight into patient care and increased awareness of adaptive skills. These
themes highlight the challenges participants faced during the pandemic.
Conclusion: The study suggests that nurses in social isolation or quarantine should be
exposed to open communication, social interaction, personal autonomy, and emotional
support to boost their resilience and mental health, thereby increasing job satisfaction and
worker engagement.
Keywords: Saudi Arabia, ICU nurses, social isolation/quarantine, experience, resilience,
caring, mental health.