Developing Nursing Frameworks for Managing Long COVID: Integrating Theoretical Models for Holistic, Patient-Centered, and Interdisciplinary Care

Abstract

Background:Long COVID, defined by the persistence of symptoms following acute COVID-19 infection, has emerged as a significant public health concern. Patients often report a wide array of physical, cognitive, and psychological symptoms, such as fatigue, breathlessness, cognitive dysfunction (brain fog), and depression. Although awareness of long COVID is increasing, there is still a lack of structured, evidence-based strategies for addressing these complex and varied symptoms. Nursing interventions, underpinned by solid theoretical models, offer a promising solution to address these intricate care needs.

Aim:This paper seeks to propose nursing frameworks rooted in theoretical models to manage the symptoms of long COVID, incorporating biopsychosocial, patient-centered, and multidisciplinary care principles aimed at improving health outcomes and quality of life.

Methods:The study conducts a thorough review of existing nursing theories and frameworks applicable to chronic illness management. A qualitative synthesis of patient-reported outcomes and case studies is performed to identify the distinct care requirements of long COVID patients. Based on these findings, theoretical frameworks are modified and developed to guide nursing practice effectively.

Results:The findings emphasize the multifaceted nature of long COVID symptoms and the importance of adopting holistic, patient-centered care approaches. The proposed frameworks include models for adaptive self-care, strategies focusing on resilience, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. Each framework is designed to tackle specific challenges, such as managing physical symptoms, promoting psychological well-being, and ensuring continuity of care.

Conclusion:The proposed nursing frameworks provide a systematic approach to managing long COVID symptoms, highlighting patient empowerment, resilience-building, and collaborative care. These frameworks offer practical guidance for integrating nursing interventions into long COVID management and stress the importance of continued research and policy development to support these efforts.