COVID-19 pandemic management at a hospital in Somalia: A qualitative study

Background COVID-19 pandemic management in the hospitals is important for the prevention practices of health staff. Studies assessing COVID-19 pandemic management in Somali hospitals are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the management of the COVID-19 pandemic at De Martino Public Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, to enhance pandemic management strategies in hospitals. Methods In this phenomenological study, in-depth interviews were conducted with 29 key participants at De Martino Hospital, including 5 managers, 12 healthcare workers, and 12 patients. Additionally, on-site observations were carried out at the hospital. The study was conducted in 2022, and thematic content analysis was used to analyze the interview data. Results The interviews revealed seven themes: infrastructure, prevention, communication, awareness, fear, management, and finance. The study found that the hospital generally managed the COVID-19 pandemic well. However, public awareness was deemed inadequate. Observations indicated a lack of triage procedures at the entrance. The results also highlighted a shortage of budget and poor infrastructure for COVID-19 management in the hospital. Conclusions Effective COVID-19 pandemic management is crucial for reducing disease transmission. It is important to implement entry regulation measures, particularly screening triage procedures. Public education is needed to encourage the adoption of COVID-19 infection prevention and control practices. Additionally, sufficient funding should be allocated to ensure that hospitals have the necessary materials, equipment, and human resources for improved management of the COVID-19 pandemic and similar epidemics.