Care home workers experiences of stress and coping during COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods study

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore the stress and coping experiences of healthcare workers (HCWs) in care home settings in Scotland during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design: A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted using an online survey and interviews. Methods: Mean scores were calculated for both stress and coping and t-tests used to explore possible links to demographics. Qualitative data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke's method. Results: For 52 survey participants, the mean score for the PSS was M = 39.75 and CSE-M = 150.6 indicating high stress and medium coping skills. From the t-test, only absence of health issues was associated with higher levels of coping. Thirteen HCWs participated in one-to-one interviews. Qualitative data analysis generated four themes contributing to stress: 1. personal factors, 2. changed care environment, 3. amplified scrutiny and 4. psychological responses. Coping was represented as three main themes: 1. personal factors, 2. organizational culture and 3. safety and security. There is a critical need for a strategic approach to provide psychological support to care home staff both during and beyond the context of the pandemic.