DEVELOPING AN ISLAMIC APPROACH ON CARING PATIENTS IN (ICU) SETTINGS DURING OUTBREAKS: THE COVID-19 PANDEMICS CASE IN MALAYSIA

Abstract

Introduction: In December 2019, the outbreak of the novel coronavirus began in Wuhan, China, marking the onset of a global health crisis that would challenge healthcare systems and professionals, particularly nurses, across the world. This study focuses on the intensive care unit (ICU) nurses in Malaysia, who have faced heightened workloads and increased mental and physical strain amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The study aims to explore the ICU nurses' experience and challenges in providing nursing care to the patient with viral infection during the outbreaks – the COVID-19 pandemic cases, to explain the role of the healthcare center’s management towards the job of the ICU nurses in caring for patients with viral infection during the pandemic and to develop the Islamic approach to the challenges of providing nursing care to the patient with viral infection during the pandemic. Therefore, addressing the gap in current research regarding spiritual coping mechanisms and Islamic adaptations in healthcare. Material and methods: This study utilizes systematic literature review, employs a descriptive qualitative study design and conducted a semi structured face-to-face interviews with ICU nurses and key personnel in ICU Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Centre SASMEC. Besides, document and textual analysis were performed in the process of developing Islamic approach. Results: The thematic analysis from this study reveals the challenges encountered and emotional response by ICU nurses in the care of COVID-19 patients, the coping strategies in the ICU environment, impact of COVID-19 on ICU nurses, spiritual dimensions in the context of nursing care and healthcare center management's role in supporting ICU nurses during COVID-19. This study has developed Islamic approach rooted in twelve Islamic principles. Conclusion: The study underscores the importance of integrating Islamic principles into nursing practices, especially in critical situations like the COVID-19 pandemic. By developing an Islamic approach, it offers a holistic framework that not only addresses the immediate challenges faced by nurses but also aligns with their spiritual beliefs, thereby enhancing their resilience and quality of care provided to patients. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by bridging the gap between conventional nursing practices and Islamic ethical considerations, offering insights for policymakers and healthcare administrators to support the nursing workforce effectively.