Description:

COVID-19 presents health and healthcare challenges worldwide, including the need to protect vulnerable individuals/communities and to limit infection to and from these populations. Those who are homeless are particularly at risk from COVID-19. This research, which is funded by RCQPS, aims to examine the characteristics of a selection of nurse-led COVID-19 interventions among homeless populations in Ireland. Through analysing the strengths and limitations of these initiatives, the most effective practice in preventing, identifying and treating COVID-19 among homeless populations will be identified and communicated to guide practice and policy development.  

Additionally, the research aims to capture inclusion health nurses’ experiences, perceptions and support needs in the context of COVID-19 to inform appropriate/useful clinical /psychological assistance.  The research methodology involves a case study approach using mixed method data collection and analysis of five nurse-led COVID-19 intervention services among homeless populations. A questionnaire will be designed and administered to determine inclusion health nurses’ experiences, perceptions and support needs in the context of COVID-19.  

Lead Investigators: 

Dr Briege Casey, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University

Dr Fiona O Reilly, Safetynet Primary Care.

Co-investigators:

Maxine Radcliffe, Anne Cronin & Raul Menendez, HSE Homeless Health link, CHO Area 7, Dublin. 

Ann-Marie Lawlee & Jess Sears, St James’s Hospital, Dublin 

Sarah Jayne Miggins, Mater Hospital, Dublin 

Emma Coughlan, Sinead Grogan, Lydia Barry, Lauren Fitzsimons, Caroline Mulqueen & Chris O’ Donnell, Safetynet Primary Care. Dublin

Niamh Murphy & Michelle Connolly, Dublin Simon Community, Dublin

Noelle Woods & Elizabeth Peña, Peter McVerry Trust, Dublin 

Dr P.J. Boyle, Ann Maria O Brien & Kay Murphy, HSE Refugee Health Centre, National Reception Centre, Balseskin, Dublin

Dr Mary Rose Sweeney, Dr Denise Proudfoot, Dr Claire Cullen, Eric Whelan & Rachel Somers, School of Nursing, Psychotherapy and Community Health, Dublin City University, Dublin.

Steve Pitman, Head of Education and Professional Development, Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation. 

Funding body: The Research Collaborative in Quality and Patient Safety (RCQPS) - a collaborative initiative between the Health Research Board, the Health Service Executive, National Quality Improvement Team and the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland

Further Details: Email Briege.casey@dcu.ie