Lived experiences and resilience of hospital pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

BACKGROUND: Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged the overall healthcare system. Healthcare workers are an essential workforce during a pandemic as they have been involved in treating patients with COVID-19. They have been exposed to detrimental effects such as high infection and death rates, chronic stress, and fear of uncertainty. Their adaptability in providing care and maintaining psychological equilibrium under unprecedented crises like COVID-19 is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and resilience of hospital pharmacists in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted among hospital pharmacists in Metro Manila, Philippines. In-depth interviews were conducted virtually using a semi-structured topic guide. Interview transcripts were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. RESULTS: The two themes that emerged from the data were challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic and the resilience of hospital pharmacists. Under challenges, it was subdivided into workplace and personal challenges. As for resilience, it was composed of positive coping mechanisms and positive outlooks of hospital pharmacists. CONCLUSIONS: Hospital pharmacists faced many challenges and learned to adapt to the continued impact of the pandemic. Hospitals are encouraged to implement measures to prepare for future public health crises and provide resources for both physical and mental health meant for hospital pharmacists.