A qualitative analysis of perceptions of and reactions to COVID-19
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2022
Keywords
COVID-19, COVID-19 reactions, Wisconsin, pandemic response, public health nursing, qualitative research
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.
Recommended Citation
Hawkins, M. M., Lopez, A. A., Schmitt, M. E., Tamkin, V. L., Dressel, A. E., Kako, P., ... & Weinhardt, L. S. (2022). A qualitative analysis of perceptions of and reactions to COVID‐19. Public Health Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1111/phn.13052