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Exploring the impacts of the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic on critical care physicians and the delivery of patient care in seven countries: A qualitative interview-based study.

Jeanna Parsons Leigh*, Chloe DeGrood, Alexandra Dodds, Francesca Rubulotta, Emily A. FitzGerald, Sara J. Mizen, Karla D. Krewulak, Stephana J. Moss, Henry T. Stelfox, Kirsten M. Fiest

 Purpose: To understand critical care physician experiences across multiple countries with the COVID-19 pandemic to inform future pandemic preparedness planning. Methods: In this qualitative study, 16 critical care physicians (from seven countries) identified in convenience, purposive sampling took part in individual semi-structured interviews from April 7, 2020 to August 27, 2020 that captured the first wave of the pandemic. Open coding was conducted by two researchers who facilitated inductive thematic analysis. Results: Key themes identified following thematic analysis included: 1) sourcing and implementation of trusted information; 2) health systems-level preparedness with accessible supports; 3) institutional adaptations including changes to patient care; 4) professional safety and occupational wellbeing; 5) triage and restricted visitation policies; and 6) managing personal familial responsibilities. Conclusion: Perspectives of critical care physicians are important for ongoing pandemic planning and should be including in future pandemic policy development.