An exploratory study of the practical impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on nursing tasks in clinical settings

Aims: To identify and compare new or increased nursing tasks in South Korea during the pandemic, categorized by hospital type and department. Background: Although COVID-19 is no longer considered a global public health emergency, the threat of novel infectious diseases remains. Reflecting on the COVID-19 pandemic is essential to prepare effectively for future outbreaks. Methods: This cross-sectional exploratory study, following the STROBE checklist, included 948 registered nurses with more than a year of clinical experience currently working in various hospitals. Questionnaires gathered demographic data, work characteristics, and the frequency of nursing task performance. Statistical analysis encompassed descriptive and inferential methods. Results: The most common new or increased nursing task across all hospital types was ‘Access control for family caregivers.’ General wards prioritized tasks related to family caregivers, while specialized units like ICU and ER focused on infection control. Conclusion: Understanding how COVID-19 has impacted nursing tasks is crucial for gaining insights into efficient resource allocation, targeted education, and policy formulation during similar public health crises. The pandemic has given rise to new family caregiver-related tasks in the nursing profession. Consequently, continuous nursing research is essential for establishing guidelines and fostering a supportive work environment, which is crucial for the successful implementation of these tasks.