Registered nurses’ management of depression in general wards

Background: During and in the aftermath of the COVID-19, the rate of depression increased globally. A significant number of patients found in a general hospital or ward with physical conditions often have depression. Aim: This study aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of registered nurses’ experiences managing patients with depression in a general medical ward. Setting: The study took place in two general medical wards of a private hospital in the Gauteng province, South Africa, in 2021, with COVID-19 lockdown levels three to one prevailing. Methods: A descriptive qualitative design was used, and data were collected through 10 in-depth, face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using a thematic approach. Results: The COVID-19 pandemic exerted a bidirectional influence, affecting both patients diagnosed with depression while admitted to a general ward and the nurses caring for them. This mutual impact added an additional layer of complexity to patient management. Conclusion: For optimal care of patients with depression in general wards, nurses need comprehensive training, confidence and a safe environment, bolstered by sufficient resources and robust management support. Contribution: The study highlights critical challenges in detecting and caring for patients diagnosed with depression in a general medical ward and the compounding effect of COVID-19. These findings underscore the importance of addressing clinical and psychosocial needs in a healthcare setting, especially amid a global pandemic.