VOICES FROM THE FRONTLINE: EXPLORING THE RISK EXPOSURE AMONG FRONTLINE HEALTH WORKERS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Frontline health workers (FHWs) in Nigeria faced substantial risk exposure during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet their lived experiences and challenges remain insufficiently documented. This qualitative study explored the risk exposure and associated systemic challenges encountered by FHWs in Nigeria amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 100 frontline health workers (doctors, nurses, lab scientists and clinical psychologists) were purposively recruited, comprising 60% males and 40% females, who provided rich accounts of their experiences through semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic analysis, revealing three major themes: (1) FHWs contract COVID-19 from patients, highlighting inadequate patient screening procedures, lack of isolation facilities, and delayed test results that increased unintentional exposure; (2) High rate of COVID-19 infection among FHWs, capturing the frequent illness among colleagues, emotional and physical burnout, and pervasive fear and anxiety within healthcare settings; and (3) Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), emphasizing shortages, poor quality, and delayed distribution of essential protective gear that compromised workplace safety. The study revealed the systemic lapses and operational challenges that not only heightened infection risks but also adversely affected the psychological well-being and morale of health workers. Findings point to urgent policy and resource interventions aimed at strengthening infection control measures and safeguarding the health and welfare of frontline health workers during ongoing and future pandemics.

Keywords: Frontline Health Workers, Risk exposure, COVID-19 pandemic