Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing (대한간호학회지)

Korean Society of Nursing Science (한국간호과학회)
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Healthcare Considerations for Special Populations during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review

  • Kim, Jeung-Im (School of Nursing, Soonchunhyang University) ;
  • Im, YeoJin (College of Nursing Science.East-West Nursing Research Institute, Kyung Hee University) ;
  • Song, Ju-Eun (College of Nursing.Research Institute of Nursing Science, Ajou University) ;
  • Jang, Sun Joo (Red Cross College of Nursing, Chung-Ang University)
  • Received : 2021.07.29
  • Accepted : 2021.08.27
  • Published : 2021.10.31
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Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as a threat to human health and public safety. People of all ages are susceptible to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection. However, the clinical manifestations of this infection differ by age. This study purposes to describe healthcare considerations for special populations, such as children, pregnant and lactating women, and older adults, who may have unique healthcare needs, in the pandemic situation. To realize the research purpose, we conducted a review of the practice guidelines of public documents and qualified studies that were published online/offline during a specific period. The review identified current knowledge on care for newborns, children in schools, pregnant women (from antenatal to postpartum care), and older adults suffering from high-risk conditions. Subsequently, we summarize vaccination guidance for special populations and, finally, discuss the issues currently affecting special populations. Therefore, this current knowledge on care for special populations helps nurses to provide accurate information on vaccinations aimed at preventing COVID-19 and protecting the masses from infection. Currently, the scarcity of information on COVID-19 variants necessitates further research on measures to reduce pandemic spread.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

This study was supported by Soonchuhyang University

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