Nurses' Perceptions on Ebola Care in the United States, Part 2 A Qualitative Analysis

OBJECTIVE: This study examined qualitative comments from an online survey of nurses' perceptions regarding care of persons under investigation and patients with confirmed Ebola virus disease (EVD) in the United States. BACKGROUND: Additional insight into nurses' perceptions regarding EVD was warranted. METHODS: Survey design used convenience sampling of RNs, licensed practical nurses, and nurse technicians, who responded to 8 open-ended survey questions. RESULTS: Most respondents (618/966 [64.0%]) provided comments. The top 5 of the 13 primary themes were lack of preparedness/readiness; training, education, and improved communications needed; fear of EVD transmission; lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection prevention; and nurses not treated professionally. CONCLUSIONS: Noting multiple concerns, most respondents reported that EVD care could be most safely provided when all parties involved are prepared and when nurses are educated and trained in evidence-driven practices with appropriate PPE and infection control procedures.