Meanings attributed to changes experienced by individuals after COVID-19 hospitalization

ABSTRACT Objectives: to understand the meanings attributed to the experiences of individuals after hospitalization for COVID-19. Methods: qualitative study, with a theoretical framework based on Symbolic Interactionism and a methodological approach grounded in Grounded Theory. Nineteen participants who had moderate and severe forms of COVID-19 after hospitalization were interviewed. Data collection took place between April and November 2021 through online interviews, and the data were analyzed using initial and focused coding in the MAXQDA software. Results: the data illustrate new meanings attributed to different aspects of life after hospitalization, including relationships with others, the environment, physical and mental health, finances, identity, and interactions with a new social reality. Conclusions: the meanings are intrinsically linked to the value of interpersonal relationships, the perception of their impact, and the consequences after hospitalization. This allows professionals to understand the importance of this information to improve care and prepare for future epidemics.