Experiences of parents and patients hospitalised in a child psychiatric unit for anorexia nervosa after reorganisation of care imposed by the COVID-19 Pandemic in France: a qualitative study—The QUALICOVID study

Abstract

Plain English summary Anorexia nervosa is a common mental health condition in the adolescent population. A set care protocol is in place and patients presenting this condition experience difficulty in adapting to change. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic was escalating in France and a national lockdown was declared by the French government on 16 March. In Nancy, France, we opted for premature discharge where possible and an intensive outpatient care programme in accordance with government recommendations. The purpose of our study was to investigate the experiences of patients and their parents regarding changes in the care strategy following lockdown. We found that patients and parents viewed the reorganisation of care in a positive light, particularly in terms of absence from school and intensive outpatient care. Our research could also benefit adolescents presenting with anorexia nervosa and undergoing restructuring of their care programme.

Keywords

• Anorexia nervosa
• Care reorganisation
• Hospitalisation
• COVID-19 pandemic
• Adolescent psychiatry
• Qualitative study