Experience of ambulance drivers on transfer of suspected or confirmed patients for COVID-19

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: To unveil the experience of ambulance drivers regarding the transfer of suspected or confirmed patients for COVID-19. Method: Exploratory study with a qualitative approach conducted in October 2021 with 18 drivers from the Northwestern Mesoregion of the State of Ceará-Brazil. The individual interviews occurred virtually, via Google Meet®, and for data processing the IRAMUTEQ® software was used. Results: Six classes were obtained: Feelings experienced during transfers; Concern about contamination of the work team and family members; Therapeutic itinerary, patients’ clinical status and increase in the number of transfers; Disinfection of ambulances between transfers of patients with suspected and/or diagnosed COVID-19; Gowning for patient transfers and Psychospiritual aspects of drivers during the pandemic. Conclusion: The experience was marked by challenges in adapting to the new routine and procedures during transfers. It was evidenced feelings of fear, insecurity, tension and anguish in the worker’s reports.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Noncommunicable diseases
• Health personnel
• Ambulances
• Emergency medical services