ABSTRACT
AIM: When a public health emergency occurs, nurses play an important role on the front lines and experience tremendous physical and mental stress. This review aims to synthesize existing qualitative studies exploring the psychological impact and support needs of nurses. DESIGN: Qualitative systematic reviews. Registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021288509). METHODS: This review uses the PEOD framework to explicitly identify qualitative questions and systematically searches four electronic databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsychINFO) for articles published between 25 March 2000 and 27 December 2020. RESULTS: A total of 10 studies published in English from 2005 to 2020 were included in the review. Following the quality critical appraisal, 26 concepts were extracted and six descriptive themes were synthesized into three analytical themes: (1) positive psychological drive, (2) need more formal supports and (3) need to be treated fairly. During sudden public health incidents, it is crucial to provide support to family members, offer psychological counselling and isolation training to nurses, while considering cultural factors and appropriate methods. Organizations and governments should prioritize establishing a robust and effective psychological support system.