AimTo explore trajectories of understanding and managing persistent chemosensory dysfunction after COVID‐19 in patients undergoing clinical treatment.DesignA descriptive qualitative interview study with a realist approach.MethodData were collected in Sweden, from August 2022 to March 2023 through semi‐structured interviews with 30 patients undergoing treatment for long‐lasting smell and taste dysfunction resulting from COVID‐19. Thematic analysis was applied in a process that involved continuous discussions and refinement of codes into themes and subthemes.ResultsThree main themes were identified: (1) Understanding the sensory alterations, which includes subthemes of Searching for validation and Seeking remedies; (2) Practical coping strategies, encompassing Adapted eating and Managing olfactory training and (3) Navigating the emotional landscape, featuring Self‐persuasion and suppression and The ambivalence of acceptance. These themes highlight the cyclic and fluid nature of coping with the dysfunction, reflecting a dynamic process of adaptation. Despite treatment options like olfactory training, participants frequently experienced frustration due to limited perceived improvement and the psychological toll of managing their condition.ConclusionThe study highlights the complex and personal nature of coping with long‐term smell and taste dysfunction post‐COVID‐19. Coping strategies varied widely and evolved over time, reflecting a dynamic process of adaptation. The emotional and psychological impact was profound, underscoring the need for comprehensive treatment approaches that include both physiological and psychological support. There is a need for more effective interventions and support mechanisms to improve the quality of life for those affected by these persistent symptoms.ImplicationsThis study contributes to the understanding of COVID‐19's long‐term effects on smell and taste, highlighting the need for ongoing support from health care, further research into effective interventions, and a comprehensive approach to care for individuals affected by these conditions.ImpactThis study addresses trajectories and challenges of coping with persistent chemosensory dysfunction. Findings emphasise the complexity of managing persistent chemosensory dysfunction and the critical role of personalised care. The study contributes to knowledge for nurses in understanding patients with chemosensory dysfunction.Reporting MethodThis research adheres to the EQUATOR guidelines: Standards for reporting qualitative research (SRQR).Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.

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应对 Covid-19 感染后持续性嗅觉和味觉功能障碍的轨迹——一项定性访谈研究


目的探索理解和管理接受临床治疗的患者在 COVID-19 后持续性化学感应功能障碍的轨迹。设计采用现实主义方法的描述性定性访谈研究。方法数据于 2022 年 8 月至 2023 年 3 月在瑞典收集，对 30 名接受 COVID-19 导致的长期嗅觉和味觉功能障碍接受治疗的患者的半结构化访谈。主题分析应用于一个过程，该过程涉及持续讨论和将代码提炼为主题和子主题。结果确定了三个主要主题：（1） 了解感觉改变，其中包括寻找验证和寻求补救措施的子主题;（2） 实用的应对策略，包括适应性饮食和管理嗅觉训练和 （3） 驾驭情绪景观，以自我说服和抑制以及接受的矛盾心理为特色。这些主题突出了应对功能障碍的周期性和流动性，反映了一个动态的适应过程。尽管有嗅觉训练等治疗选择，但由于感知到的改善有限以及管理病情的心理损失，参与者经常感到沮丧。结论该研究强调了应对 COVID-19 后长期嗅觉和味觉功能障碍的复杂性和个人性质。应对策略差异很大，并随着时间的推移而演变，反映了一个动态的适应过程。情绪和心理影响是深远的，强调需要包括生理和心理支持在内的综合治疗方法。 需要更有效的干预措施和支持机制来改善受这些持续症状影响的人的生活质量。意义本研究有助于了解 COVID-19 对嗅觉和味觉的长期影响，强调需要医疗保健的持续支持，进一步研究有效的干预措施，以及为受这些疾病影响的个体提供综合护理的方法。影响本研究探讨了应对持续性化学感应功能障碍的轨迹和挑战。研究结果强调了管理持续性化学感应功能障碍的复杂性以及个性化护理的关键作用。该研究有助于护士了解化疗感觉功能障碍患者。报告方法本研究遵循 EQUATOR 指南：定性研究报告标准 （SRQR）。患者或公众捐款没有患者或公众捐款。