Introduction: Caring for patients with coronavirus at the start of the COVID-19 outbreak was extremely challenging for nurses due to the lack of knowledge regarding transmission, morbidity and mortality rates, treatment protocols, and the social stigma attached. These difficulties led to some nurses avoiding caring for COVID-19 patients and preferring non-infectious cases. It is remarkable that despite facing numerous challenges, some nurses volunteered to care for those with coronavirus.
Objective: This study aims to elucidate the experiences of these volunteer nurses and the factors that influenced their decision to volunteer during the pandemic.
Material and Methods: The current qualitative study was conducted using conventional content analysis research methods. It involved semi-structured interviews with 13 nurses who volunteered to care for patients with coronavirus during the pandemic. Data were collected and analyzed following the five steps of the Graneheim and Landman method. Trustworthiness was established using the Goba and Lincoln criteria.
Results: Volunteer nurses’ experiences amidst the Coronavirus outbreak in a theme entitled “Hallow Transcendence” are categorized into three main themes: “Spiritual Transcendence”, “Sagely Sacrifice”, and “Hallow Defense”. Additionally, six subcategories including “Satisfaction of aiding vulnerable patients”, “Blessings and perspectives of patients”, “Taking on blame”, “Sense of dedication”, “Viewing the pandemic as a battlefield”, and “Close connections with security personnel” were identified.
Conclusion: Elevating the care of the corona patient has instilled a profound perspective in nurses. Various aspects, such as spiritual viewpoints, ethical dilemmas, and religious beliefs, play a significant role in shaping the dedication, resolve, and performance of nurses. Spiritual transcendence emerges as a particularly precious aspect that presents itself to nurses more prominently than usual.