Assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on a children’s hospital: The point of view of patients and families

The coronavirus pandemic has affected our health, social behavior, and quality of life. In addition to the deaths and morbidity, the crisis also affects all spheres in society. The objective of this study was to assess the perception of hospital patients and families regarding the pandemic. This is a descriptive study conducted May-July 2020 in the Sant Joan de Déu children’s hospital, Barcelona, Spain. We developed a mix-method approach. It included online semi-structured interviews and photo voice. Seventeen patients’ representatives were interviewed. In their opinion, the pandemic has affected the health of patients and families at the physical and psychological areas. The pandemic also made them to adapt to the new technologies. Participants expressed the impact the pandemic had at the social level and in the sustainability of patients’ associations. Members of the Infant and Youth Councils expressed their feelings about the pandemic through pictures. It is necessary to carry out social research that helps to interpret the impact that the pandemic is having on patients, families and society.