Living the hospitalization of a family by COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: to learn how family members experienced the period of hospitalization of their loved one with the severe form of Covid-19. Methods: this is a qualitative study carried out with twelve family members of patients who had the severe form of Covid-19. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews, and the analysis was guided by the analytical steps of the Grounded Theory. Results: two categories emerged “The impact of hospitalization on the family” and “The importance of social support to the family”. Conclusion: Experiencing the hospitalization of a family member as a result of Covid-19, provides the emergence of various feelings and emotions, making it a difficult time, permeated with uncertainties and anguish in the face of the outcome of the hospitalization of your family member. The importance of health professionals and the community is highlighted, highlighting them as important protective factors in this period.