The Lived Experience of Critically-Ill Muslim Patients in Isolation.

PURPOSE: This study explored critically ill Muslim patients' experiences and perceptions related to confinement to isolation rooms. METHODS: The descriptive-interpretive lens of phenomenology was employed to explore and illuminate the isolation experience of critically ill Muslim patients). Semi-structured, face-to-face, audiotaped interviews were conducted . Colaizzi's method of data analysis, in combination with an interpretive analysis supported by van Manen's "lifeworld constituents" were used. RESULTS: Data analysis revealed four themes: Feeling isolated and imprisoned; losing basic patients' rights; feeling rejected by healthcare providers; and accepting isolation and its adversity. Findings were illuminated by applying van Manen's lifeworld constituents: spatiality, temporality, relationality and corporeality. The patients described the overwhelming impact of isolation on their physical, emotional, social and spiritual health. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides healthcare providers with an in-depth understanding of critically ill patients' physical, psychological and spiritual needs. Although the unique needs of Muslim patients are highlighted, it is evident that patients' suffering in isolation is universal. Healthcare providers are encouraged to consider creative measures to support and help patients cope with the adversity of isolation.

Fears and uncertainties of expectant mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic: trying to reclaim control.

PURPOSE: The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has exponentially spread across the globe and formed one of the greatest health threats in history. Pregnant women are vulnerable, and their vulnerability is amplified by the associated containment measures of the pandemic. In this study, we aim to explore and describe expectant mothers' experiences during the lockdown of COVID-19. METHOD: A qualitative descriptive design was used. Eighteen pregnant and postpartum women were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Semi-structured phone call interviews were conducted by a female researcher. Braun and Clarke's thematic data analysis was followed. RESULTS: Three main themes are developed: (1) Living with fears and uncertainties amid the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) Lockdown disrupting the normalcy of pregnancy, (3) Trying to control the chaos of life. Five subthemes underlined the three themes. CONCLUSION: Findings portrayed expectant mothers' uncertainties, fears, and the fragility of the healthcare systems in responding to mothers' needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the pandemic has resulted in disruption of the normalcy of pregnancy, mothers sought adaptive means to protect themselves and maintain control. Governmental authorities and healthcare providers are directly responsible to maintain considerate perinatal care services for expectant mothers during lockdown and crises.