Open AccessViews and experiences of discharged COVID-19 patients in Kano, Nigeria a qualitative study
Author(s) -
Naziru Bashir Mukhtar,
Auwal Abdullahi,
Muhammad Aliyu Abba,
Jibril Mohammed
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
the pan african medical journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.287
H-Index - 30
ISSN - 1937-8688
DOI - 10.11604/pamj.supp.2020.37.1.26609
Subject(s) - medicine , covid-19 , qualitative research , pandemic , family medicine , virology , pathology , disease , infectious disease (medical specialty) , social science , sociology , outbreak
COVID-19 has spread globally, thereby contributing to substantial hospitalisation rates and morbidity. However, little or no information is available on the experiences of patients with COVID-19 in an African-setting. The study aimed to explore the experiences of patients with COVID-19. Methods semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone with eleven individuals who were managed and discharged due to COVID-19. A descriptive phenomenological approach to qualitative research was employed and participants were mainly asked about their experiences before, during and after hospitalisation for COVID-19. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results patients' viewpoints were suggestive of community and secondary transmission of COIVD-19 in the study area. A few participants experienced severe symptoms. Most participants tend to resign their condition to fate; while some displayed unfounded conspiracy theories. Nevertheless, precautionary measures to prevent infection were largely observed. COVID-19 also negatively affected activities of daily living of the participants. Furthermore, the participants were generally satisfied with quality of care provided. However, areas of patients' education, isolation centre set-up and caregiver-patient interaction needed further improvements. Lastly, experience of fear and stigma during post-hospitalisation were common. Conclusion COVID-19 impacted negatively on the lives of the studied population. However, their experience during hospitalisation was generally positive.