| Title: | The experience of people with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis living through the Covid-19 pandemic |
|---|---|
| Author(s): | N. Ryan A. O'Brien B. Casserly P. Meskell |
| Institution: | UHL |
| Poster: | Click to view poster |
| Category: | COVID 19 |
| Abstract: | As a response to the Covid-19 pandemic, restriction measures aimed to slow down virus transmission and protect vulnerable groups of people were introduced worldwide. People with IPF were particularly vulnerable due to increased risk of more serious illness from Covid-19, therefore many self-isolated to protect themselves. A qualitative descriptive design was undertaken using purposive sampling to recruit 13 participants with IPF attending the respiratory department of a large urban teaching hospital in Ireland. Data were collected between January 2021 and February 2021 through semi-structured interviews using an online platform. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Four key themes were identified from participant’s experience of living through the Covid-19 pandemic: (1) fear of contracting Covid-19, (2) living with reduced social interaction, (3) the adjustment in the relationship with healthcare professionals and (4) navigating an altered landscape. Participants were compelled to self-isolate due to fear and anxiety of contracting Covid-19. Participants reported increased social isolation with some experiencing anger and resentment at loss of precious time with family and friends. Conscious of their limited lifespan having IPF, many felt saddened and aggrieved at the time theft. Participants felt an increased responsibility for self-monitoring their condition and concern at differentiating symptoms of Covid-19 from an exacerbation. Participants discussed a variety of strategies that helped them cope through the pandemic and the important role they played. |
