Management of Covid-19 Crisis in Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals: Challenges and Strategies

Background and Aim:  The strategies of hospitals in confronting the Covid-19 crisis is extremely important in the control and management of this epidemic. Exploring the challenges and suitable strategies for controlling biological epidemics in Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) hospitals might pave the way for better management of possible similar crises in the future. Materials and Methods: This was a qualitative, exploratory and inductive study including 22 health professionals from TUMS involved in the management of the disease. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed by thematic analysis, using MAXQDA. Results: The most important challenges identified were related to the lack of preparedness at the macro-level, impracticability of controlling the use of personal protection equipment (PPE)  and the consumption of medications, as well as provision of equipment, medications and protecting medical devices. The effective strategies and interventions in the pandemic were grouped into the following categories: manpower, education, communications, clinical work, decision-making and organizational activities. Conclusion: Preventive measures and preparedness before the onset of the crisis have not received sufficient attention. Hospitals could have an important role in confronting the crisis through promoting work efficiency and standards. Timely prevention and preparedness before a pandemic as regards medications, personal protection equipment and diagnostics are extremely essential, as are timely and flexible decisions by crisis committees and the control of manpower emotions flux during crisis management.