Start Over

A qualitative analysis of perceptions of and reactions to COVID-19.

Authors :: Hawkins MM
Lopez AA
Schmitt ME
Tamkin VL
Dressel AE
Kako P
Mkandawire-Valhmu L
Weinhardt LS
Source :: Public health nursing (Boston, Mass.) [Public Health Nurs] 2022 Jul; Vol. 39 (4), pp. 719-727. Date of Electronic Publication: 2022 Feb 05.
Publication Year :: 2022
Abstract: Objective: To understand communities' perceptions, beliefs, and health-related behavior choices related to COVID-19 in order to guide public health nursing communication and interaction with patients and the community. Design: A qualitative study, guided by the Health Belief Model (HBM), strove to comprehend the perceptions and reactions to COVID-19 among Wisconsinites. Sample: Twenty-five diverse Wisconsin residents aged 18 or older. Measurements: Semi-structured interviews provided information about individuals' attitudes, perceptions, and reactions to COVID-19. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematic analysis was conducted to identify themes. Results: We identified three major themes: (1) "health care starts way before you ever enter the doors of a healthcare facility"; (2) "to live in a society is to help each other"; and (3) mental health as impacted by COVID-19. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the need for greater public health support, as well as the role of Social Determinants of Health. Understanding perceptions and reactions to COVID-19 can help public health nurses understand and better respond to future pandemics. (© 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)