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

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.