Managerial Resources Administration for Infection Prevention and Control during COVID-19 Outbreaks Era in a Center Hospital

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to describe and explain managerial resources administration for infection prevention and control during the COVID-19 outbreak era in a center hospital. The informants included 12 head nurses who had experience managing wards with different tenures and had been assigned to work in the COVID-19 ward, or those who had managed COVID-19 wards when a patient was found. The research methodology involved conducting in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and content analysis.

The results of the study revealed that they were three key issues according to the 4 M’s principles in the managerial resources administration for infection prevention and control during the COVID-19 outbreaks era in a Center Hospital. Human resource administration consisted of three issues: 1) urgent need to enhance knowledge and skills in caring for COVID-19 patients, 2) adequate management of manpower to meet the demands of the emerging epidemic both within and outside the hospital, and 3) appropriate assignment of tasks based on nurses’ competencies aligned with the mission of caring for emerging diseases. Materials and budget administration included  ensuring sufficient and convenient provision of places and supplies for patients and personnel by utilizing un-plan budget funds. The management method consisted of organizing nursing practice in the ward that facilitates strict prevention and control of infection spread.

In addition, executive support consisted of 1) allocating emergency budget for the preparation of facilities and equipment required for the care of COVID-19 patients; 2) knowledge to strengthen the confidence of personnel in the operation of the mission to care for patients with emerging diseases; and 3) risk allowance. Obstacles in administrative resource management included increased dependency on manpower and the fear of personnel contracting COVID-19. The findings of this research can serve as a guideline for nursing administrators in planning and enhancing the quality of administrative resource management for infection prevention and control in hospitals among the outbreaks of dangerous communicable diseases.