VOICES FROM THE FRONTLINES: THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF NURSES WORKING OVERTIME AMID THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Christine Joy Ablaza, Maridee Abutin, Abigail Joy Agunos, Kayleen Krizha Alberto, Almario Maerhilyn, Ramona Kris Antipolo, Irish Bancairen, Bai Sittie Rahima Banto, Chrisa Mae Capillo, Honey Mae Cogollodo, Janisah Datu-Emam, Bernice Raziel Caliwagan

Abstract


The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for healthcare systems worldwide, placing Filipino nurses at the forefront of the response. This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of five nurses aged 24 to 36, working in various units across tertiary hospitals in Metro Manila. Through in-depth interviews, three major themes emerged, capturing their journey of dedication, struggle, and resilience. The first theme, A Call to Duty, revealed the unwavering commitment of nurses to provide care despite the uncertainties of the pandemic. Nurses expressed a deep sense of responsibility, often working beyond their limits to save lives. The fulfillment they found in seeing patients recover and return home underscored their resilience and dedication to their profession. The second theme, Unveiling the Challenges, highlighted the physical, emotional, and systemic burdens nurses faced. Fear of contracting and spreading the virus, physical exhaustion from long hours in personal protective equipment, and the strain of witnessing patients die alone were recurring struggles. Compounding these were systemic issues such as inadequate staffing, insufficient resources, and a lack of support and recognition from institutions, which exacerbated their mental and emotional distress. Despite these adversities, the third theme, Resilience in the Face of Adversity, showcased the strategies nurses employed to cope with their circumstances. Patient gratitude, personal hobbies, spiritual practices, and support from loved ones were pivotal in maintaining their resilience. These strategies not only helped them navigate the challenges but also fostered a sense of purpose and emotional recovery. This study highlights the duality of dedication and struggle experienced by Filipino nurses during the pandemic, emphasizing the urgent need for systemic reforms to address their well-being. Improved compensation, adequate resources, mental health support, and recognition are essential to sustain and empower the nursing workforce. By understanding the lived experiences of these frontline heroes, policymakers and institutions can better prepare for future crises and strengthen the healthcare system’s resilience.

 

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Keywords


resilience, frontline nurses, COVID-19 pandemic, coping mechanisms, healthcare challenges

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejphs.v8i1.208

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