Korean J Adult Nurs.  2023 Aug;35(3):212-224. 10.7475/kjan.2023.35.3.212.

Isolation and Recovery Experiences of COVID-19 Patients in South Korea: A Qualitative Study

• Chang SJ
• Kim GM
• Sim SH
• Kim JA

• KMID: 2545835
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7475/kjan.2023.35.3.212

Abstract

Purpose
COVID-19 is both a national crisis and a cause of individual trauma. This trauma is experienced during the period of acute illness and for an unpredictable duration after recovery. This study explored experiences of COVID-19 patients in hospital isolation, providing a detailed account of their experiences to furnish basic data necessary for establishing strategies to address the psychosocial problems that may arise from the hospital isolation process and recovery period.
Methods
We conducted comprehensive interviews and qualitative content analysis. We held in-depth interviews with five COVID-19 patients from May 16 to August 22, 2021, and also analyzed data from interviews with five patients conducted as part of another study on COVID-19 patients' perceptions. Thus, 10 participants' interviews were analyzed in this study.
Results
From the qualitative data, 34 codes, 9 subcategories, and 4 categories were identified. The categories included "Prioritization of epidemic prevention over treatment," "Victims who have been labeled as perpetrators," "Gratitude felt in difficult moments," and "Demand for respect from the system and society." After analyzing these categories, we derived the overarching theme of "It's okay, but it's not okay."
Conclusion
During isolation treatment, it is crucial to uphold human rights as much as possible by prioritizing patient care, providing a comfortable environment, and offering clear guidance on their progress. Communication between patients and caregivers should be facilitated to provide psychological support. Furthermore, national policies such as economic compensation and strategies for post-traumatic growth should be implemented to address grievances and facilitate recovery.

Keyword

COVID-19; Health policy; Patient isolation; Qualitative research; Social stigma