Experiences of physiotherapists working in intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile. A qualitative study

To explore the experiences of physiotherapists who worked in ICUs during the COVID-19 pandemic in Chile in the work, family, social and personal areas.

A qualitative study with an exploratory-descriptive scope was conducted. Participants were selected through purposive sampling using a maximum variation strategy. Data were collected through online focus groups using an interview guideline. The data were analysed through thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's model. Researcher triangulation was used as a rigorous strategy. This study was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile in January 2022.

Five focus groups were conducted, one for each geographic macro-zone of Chile, between May and September 2022. The focus groups were recorded in audio files and then transcribed verbatim. All the material was protected to guarantee the anonymity of the participants and the confidentiality of the data. Among the results, the context of uncertainty, the fear of contagion, the change in roles, the great importance of teamwork and the permanent confrontation with the death of patients (work environment) were highlighted. Also highlighted was the distancing from one's own family, the fear of being agents of contagion and the deterioration of couple relationships (family environment). In addition, emphasis was placed on mental health alterations, such as prolonged stress, difficulties in falling asleep and emotional lability. Several participants reported having required the support of mental health professionals and the use of medication (personal level). 

The experiences lived were described as intense, stressful, emotional, learning and also very satisfying. Although the performance of physiotherapists in this context is seen as a contribution to the development of the profession, attention should be paid to the possible appearance of symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress. 

The main results of this study show that physiotherapists working in intensive care units do not have sufficient professional competencies to face the death of patients in a highly complex clinical context. Although the COVID-19 pandemic presented us with an exceptional context, the experiences of the physiotherapists highlight the need to strengthen the specialised training of this group of professionals.