The Phenomenon of Waiting to Know: The lived experience of adults exposed and tested for SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

Objective: The study explored the lived experience of adults exposed and tested for SARS-CoV-2 while waiting for their test results.

Methods:  A Husserlian phenomenological approach was utilized to capture the participants’ experience as they answered the question “What is the experience like to be waiting for your SARS-CoV 2 results?”. Purposive sampling was done and twelve participants were interviewed. Colaizzi’s method was then utilized to analyze the data.

Results: Four emergent themes were discovered namely: (1) feeling negative emotions, (2) interrupted physiologic patterns, (3) strengthening physical health, and (4) managing mental health. 

Conclusions: The experience was filled with negative emotions with changes in physiological patterns, but it opened avenues for enhancing physical and mental well-being. Findings suggest care interventions including technology-driven approaches during waiting periods, especially in emerging diseases.