Protective Strategies of Nurses encountering Covid 19: A Qualitative Study

Abstract Background: Since nurses have a critical role in managing infectious diseases outbreaks, it is necessary to conduct more research to find the factors and risks leading to occupational injuries, as well as their individual action on protective measures in the event of epidemics. The aim of this study was to explain the protective strategies adopted by nurses during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods: This qualitative study was performed with the participation of 13 nurses caring for patients infected with Covid-19 in five medical centre in north-western Iran. Data were collected using non-structured qualitative and face-to-face interviews, and analysed by Graneheim and Lundman's content analysis method. Results: Three main categories emerged: Normalization; Avoidance; and logical encounter. Conclusion: Participants were using a wide range of strategies to protect themselves that each one leads to various individual and organizational consequences. By knowing these strategies, nursing managers can maintain the workforce and contribute to the productivity of the organization.