Understanding the Experiences of Frontline Workers in Long-Term Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Study

Abstract

In Canada, the COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects on the residents and staff in long-term care (LTC) facilities, yet little is known about the experiences of frontline workers in LTC facilities with infectious outbreaks. The need for specialized knowledge of experiential and subjective data is significant to help us improve our understanding of the effects of the pandemic on frontline workers, and to develop stronger practices and disaster preparedness in LTC settings. The purpose of this research was to gain a deeper understanding of the experience of frontline workers caring for residents in LTC homes during the COVID-19 outbreaks using narrative inquiry. Methods of data collection included interviews, photovoice, field notes, and a researcher’s journal. Participants captured photographs representing their experience working during the COVID-19 outbreak at their LTC home. Participants’ stories were collected in interviews through reflection on each of their photographs. Data analysis followed Frank’s hermeneutic method of analysis of stories. Data was explored for analytic interests that resonate through the multiple narratives; these included: psychosocial effects, support, loss of normalcy, increased workload, and altruism and dedication. This study demonstrates the importance of equipping frontline workers with relevant knowledge to feel prepared and confident in protecting the residents, themselves, and their families. It highlighted the importance of protecting the mental health of frontline workers and the influence support from management personnel has on the experience of frontline workers during infectious outbreaks. This study demonstrates the role that disaster preparedness and policy development can have in the wake of infectious outbreaks. This study gave the frontline workers in LTC homes an avenue to share their experiences and provide firsthand insight into the events that took place during the COVID-19 outbreaks in LTC homes.