2.3. Study Design

We proposed a mixed methods study, with a convergent design that involved quantitative data collection and qualitative data collection [27]. This design was chosen because the qualitative data allow for further exploration of the results of the quantitative data. The quantitative and qualitative data will be analysed separately and then compared for a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

The study is divided into three phases (Table 1):

The study phases.

Phase 1: Quantitative investigation of the needs of patients affected by COVID-19, the nursing interventions employed, and their effectiveness through questionnaires to the patients and nurses.

Phase 2: Qualitative investigation of the needs of patients affected by COVID-19, the nursing interventions employed and their effectiveness—data collection from nurses, patients and caregivers.

Phase 3: Quantitative analysis of nursing documentation (electronic patient records). We consulted the electronic patient records of the patients who agreed to be interviewed.