Frontline Nurse perception and preparedness for Marburg hemorrhagic fever at Wolaita Sodo Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Southern Ethiopia: Qualitative study

Abstract Background Marburg hemorrhagic fever is a highly infectious and often fatal viral disease that places frontline nurses at the greatest risk, especially in settings where resources and training opportunities are limited. As the first point of contact for suspected cases, nurses’ perceptions and level of preparedness strongly influence early detection, infection prevention, and outbreak response. However, little is known about how frontline nurses in Southern Ethiopia understand and experience their roles during such high-risk situations. This study explored how nurses at Wolaita Sodo Comprehensive Specialized Hospital perceive Marburg hemorrhagic fever and how prepared they feel to respond to a potential outbreak. Objectives To explore and understand the perceptions and preparedness of frontline nurses regarding Marburg hemorrhagic fever at Wolaita Sodo Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Southern Ethiopia, 2024. Methods A qualitative descriptive-phenomenological approach was used. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 frontline nurses working in units most likely to receive or manage suspected cases, from October 16 to November 10, 2024. Participants were purposively selected based on their involvement in emergency, triage, isolation, and inpatient care. Data analysis followed Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method with support from Open Code software. Twelve nurses (seven women and five men) took part, with a mean age of 32 years (range: 25–45). Three central themes emerged from the analysis: nurses’ perceptions and understanding of Marburg hemorrhagic fever, their preparedness and the hospital’s readiness, and the emotional and professional pressures linked to working during outbreaks. Conclusion The study found that although frontline nurses had general awareness of Marburg hemorrhagic fever, many felt underprepared due to limited practical training, inadequate protective equipment, and concerns about institutional preparedness. Fear of infection, emotional strain, and uncertainty were common, yet nurses also expressed strong dedication to their roles. Strengthening continuous training, improving infection-prevention resources, and ensuring supportive leadership are essential for enhancing frontline preparedness for future outbreaks.