Introduction COVID-19 has spread globally, thereby contributing to substantial hospitalisation rates and morbidity. However, little or no information is available on the experiences of patients with COVID-19 in an African-setting. The study aimed to explore the experiences of patients with COVID-19. Methods semi-structured interviews were conducted via telephone with eleven individuals who were managed and discharged due to COVID-19. A descriptive phenomenological approach to qualitative research was employed and participants were mainly asked about their experiences before, during and after hospitalisation for COVID-19. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results patients’ viewpoints were suggestive of community and secondary transmission of COIVD-19 in the study area. A few participants experienced severe symptoms. Most participants tend to resign their condition to fate; while some displayed unfounded conspiracy theories. Nevertheless, precautionary measures to prevent infection were largely observed. COVID-19 also negatively affected activities of daily living of the participants. Furthermore, the participants were generally satisfied with quality of care provided. However, areas of patients’ education, isolation centre set-up and caregiver-patient interaction needed further improvements. Lastly, experience of fear and stigma during post-hospitalisation were common. Conclusion COVID-19 impacted negatively on the lives of the studied population. However, their experience during hospitalisation was generally positive.
【저자키워드】 COVID-19, qualitative research, hospitalisation, patients, 【초록키워드】 Infection, activity, Spread, morbidity, Research, Patient, Isolation, Community, information, Care, Interaction, Participants, Improvements, thematic analysis, individual, severe symptoms, secondary transmission, daily living, measure, participant, positive, MOST, approach, Prevent, Result, conducted, provided, analysed, contributing to, discharged, impacted, asked, negatively affected, patients with COVID-19, 【제목키워드】 COVID-19 patient, discharged, View,