O-13 Registered Nurses' perceptions of their comfort and safety levels in the work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic at five selected health institutions in Guyana

Methods: This study used a quantitative and cross-sectional design. A convenient sample of two hundred and forty-nine (249) RNs was obtained from the five (5) selected health institutions based on proportional allocation. The instrument used in this study was a modified version of the Original DiConFon Survey Questionnaire (DSQ). The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), 26th edition, was used to analyse retrieved data. The data obtained was presented using descriptive statistics. Participant confidentiality was maintained throughout the study.

Results: Data from 244 RNs were analysed and 38.1% of RNs were dissatisfied with their overall comfort level in the work environment; 35.2% of RNs reported inadequate availability of personal protective equipment. Of the RNs surveyed, 82.8% opined a high risk of contracting COVID19 in the work environment. Of the 82.8%, 47.1% opined an extremely high risk and 35.7 % high risk. Training on COVID-19, infection prevention and control, testing, and use of personal protective equipment were deemed inadequate by 35.2% of RNs. The majority of RNs (63.9%) were dissatisfied (42.2% extremely dissatisfied and 21.7% dissatisfied) with their overall safety levels in the work environment.

Conclusion: Overall, RNs perceive a low level of comfort and safety in their work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discussions between policymakers and nurses should prioritize facilitating appropriate interventions to improve nurses' perceptions of their comfort and safety.