The Impact of Quarantine Measures on Psychological Wellbeing of Nurses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Over the last 18-20 months the COVID-19 pandemic has presented both the global population and health care system with numerous challenges. The research problem explored the impact of quarantine measures on the psychological well-being of nurses in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The preliminary literature review determined that high levels of stress in nurses, burnout and the prevalence of psychological problems are linked to high workloads, the organisational environment, stress and the absence of preventative measures. The study employed a mixed research design and undertook a survey of 71 nurses in the KSA to produce statistical analysis and structured interviews of nine nurses. The data were analysed using statistical analysis for the survey and manual coding for the interviews. It was hypothesised that quarantine measures have affected the psychological well-being of nurses. The results of the study supported this. The findings also showed that nurses experienced increased occurrences of anxiety and depression during the quarantine period. The difference between the mental health status of nurses both before and during the pandemic was statistically significant, highlighting the impact of this event on nurses’ psychological well- being. Qualitative results indicated that nurses were in distress during the pandemic, as they felt elevated levels of fear, isolation, anxiety and depression. Many nurses emphasised the importance of such an experience as regards gaining knowledge and developing preparedness for future similar events. The research implied that the pandemic increased depression and anxiety levels in nurses. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that it also prepared them (psychologically and intellectually) for similar events in the future.