Caring for patients with multidrug-resistant bacteria in a pandemic: A qualitative, longitudinal focus group study of nurses’ experiences

The present study aimed to describe registered nurses’ experiences of change in attitudes and self-efficacy when caring for patients with multidrug-resistant bacteria during a pandemic. This qualitative, longitudinal study used serial focus group interviews. It was conducted in a university hospital in southwestern Norway before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, 62 registered nurses (RNs) participated in 12 focus group interviews at three time points between March 2020 and March 2023. We employed a diachronic analysis approach, finding four themes. The RNs experienced variable confidence in their infection prevention and control knowledge, and the constantly changing pandemic context and guidelines became obstacles to recommended behaviour. The RNs’ emotional responses when caring for patients with multidrug-resistant bacteria changed during the pandemic, and they became more confident in antibiotic stewardship. Despite these changes as a result of the pandemic, the RNs expressed consistent solution orientation, indicating a steady self-efficacy even through change. Reporting Method: COREQ.