The psychosocial effects of being quarantined following exposure to SARS: a qualitative study of Toronto health care workers.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the psychosocial effects on health care workers of being quarantined because of exposure to severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).


METHODS
We used semistructured qualitative interviews.


RESULTS
We identified 3 major themes concerning psychosocial effects: loss, duty, and conflict.


CONCLUSIONS
Quarantined workers experienced stigma, fear, and frustration. We highlight the need for clear and easily accessible information on dealing with infectious diseases. Practical advice on coping and stress management techniques for health care workers are needed in preparation for potential future outbreaks of infectious diseases.
Robertson
Emma
E
University Health Network, Women's Health Program, Toronto, Ontario. emma.robertson@uhn.on.ca
Hershenfield
Karen
K
Grace
Sherry Lynn
SL
Stewart
Donna Eileen
DE
D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada / Q000453:epidemiology; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D016273:Occupational Exposure / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011584:Psychology; D011790:Quarantine / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D045169:Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome / Q000523:psychology*