Keeping our borders safe: The social stigma of nursing in managed isolation and quarantine border facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

This article reports on a qualitative, single centre descriptive study on the experiences of nurses working in managed isolation and quarantine facilities (MIQFs) in Aotearoa New Zealand. Semi-structed interviews, via Zoom, took place with 14 registered nurses. The focus of this article is on the personal and social impacts on the nurses. The four themes discussed are protecting the community while being a risk to the community;the barriers beyond the borders -- social stigma;kept at distance - families and social connections;and a part of, but apart from, other health professionals. This study captures a unique moment in the history of Aotearoa New Zealand and highlights how the nurses' professional and personal lives were significantly impacted. Unlike other studies of nurses caring for COVID-19 patients, the MIQF nurses were caring for guests who were in isolation due to the Aotearoa New Zealand's government directive to protect the borders from people returning to the country. The study offers valuable lessons for employers, colleagues, and the wider community about the necessity of supporting nurses through times of a pandemic.