The main goal of this study was to understand the perceptions of nurses who cared for patients with Covid-19 at the onset of the pandemic in Northeast USA. Private interviews were held three times with each participant, over the period of 18 months. The interviews were examined for common themes and expressions used by nurses to describe such topics as their professional image, memories, and advise to other nurses.

This study was conducted in a single institution. Forty-one (41) nurses were recruited from various units in the medical center. An effort was made to invite nurses from different clinical units, as well as inexperienced and experienced nurses, and males as well as females. To obtain variety in the participants a randomization list (list of names placed in order by a computer) was used to invite nurses. Participants consented and were aware that they would be interviewed three times. The interviews were recorded for transcription and subsequent analysis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• RN employed by facility; cared for adult patients with Covid-19 from March - April 2000, consenting

Exclusion Criteria:

• not employed as an RN; did not care for patients with Covid-19 from March-April 2000 at designated facility, does not agree to consent

RNs employed at the participating facility, cared for adult patients with Covid-19 in March-April 2020, consenting, participated in three private interviews (taped) over a period of 18 months.

There is no plan to share individual data because of the confidentiality of this study. A summary of findings will be disseminated by presentation and/or publications.