Abstract
BACKGROUND: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has severely impacted nursing services, with thousands of ICU nurses infected with potentially fatal respiratory infections. Saudi Arabian studies suggest psychological implications, with loneliness and social isolation linked to higher depression and anxiety levels. Pandemic preparedness should focus on workforce protection and mental well-being promotion. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to understand the experiences of critical care nurses in Saudi Arabia who contracted COVID-19, with the goal of formulating recommendations to empower them, increase resilience, and help the profession thrive post-pandemic. METHOD: This study used an exploratory, descriptive, and contextual approach, conducting unstructured interviews with 11 Critical Care Unit (CCU) Registered Nurse (RN) who contracted COVID-19, and analysing the data using Colaizzi's seven-step method. RESULTS: Three themes emerged from the data: (1) physical isolation led to loneliness and psychological separation, lacking emotional support and freedom of choice; (2) reintegration into the work environment increased stress and loneliness and (3) Coronavirus disease 2019 exposure provided essential insight into patient care and increased awareness of adaptive skills. These themes highlight the challenges participants faced during the pandemic. CONCLUSION: This research study indicated the experiences of ICU nurses who contracted COVID-19, revealing feelings of loneliness, depression and stress. Despite reintegration into their work environment, these feelings persist.Contribution: The study indicates that nurses in social isolation or quarantine also require open communication, social interaction, personal autonomy and emotional support to boost their resilience and mental health, and to increase their job satisfaction.