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Anarna KS, Tomas ACV. Assessment of Emotions and Stress Coping Mechanisms of Healthcare Workers from the Department of Pediatrics at the Philippine General Hospital a Year after the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic. ACTA MEDICA PHILIPPINA 2024; 58:129-141. [PMID: 38882919 PMCID: PMC11168951 DOI: 10.47895/amp.v58i7.6343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Objective Healthcare workers (HCWs) are an often overlooked population in the face of a pandemic. With the myriad of researches focusing on the effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) on patients, this study aimed to illuminate the emotions, stressors and stress coping mechanisms of medical frontliners from the Department of Pediatrics working in Philippine General Hospital. Methods A quantitative cross-sectional study was done among 130 HCWs ages 21-55 years old, mostly females (72%), recruited through convenience sampling. An adapted questionnaire from China was used and data were analyzed using means, T-test and Anova. Results Results showed that HCWs predominantly felt a high sense of professional and ethical duty towards their jobs. Stressors include fear of transmitting the virus to their family and the shortage of manpower, while stress-relievers include knowing that their family are safe and having a good relationship with colleagues. Coping strategies include the use of personal protective measures and the hope of cure motivates them to continue working. Seeking psychiatric help is interestingly one of the least important motivational factors. Nurses, fellows, and residents significantly differ in responses about their feelings, stress-relievers, and coping strategies. Conclusion HCWs are a vulnerable population since they endure multiple stressors but they are idealistic and resilient, hence the hospital should give adequate financial compensation and provide good work-life balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kia S Anarna
- Department of Pediatrics, Philippine General Hospital, University of the Philippines Manila
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Youssfi I, Mechergui N, Ziedi H, Mersni M, Chemingui S, Haouari W, Aouida D, Youssef I, Ladhari N. Work ability and mental health at return to work after COVID-19: A descriptive study among healthcare workers. Work 2024:WOR230352. [PMID: 38489207 DOI: 10.3233/wor-230352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers (HCW) may experience anxiety and prolonged work schedules during pandemics. The mental health status after a COVID-19 infection and the work ability of HCW are interesting criteria in assessing their fitness to work at the return to work (RTW) medical visit. OBJECTIVES To assess mental health and work ability after a COVID-19 infection among HCW at the RTW medical visit. METHODS An observational cross-sectional and descriptive study was carried out among HCW of Charles Nicolle Hospital of Tunisia infected with COVID-19 from September to December 2020. Anxiety and depression were screened using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD). The perceived ability to work at RTW was measured using the Work Ability Index (WAI). RESULTS We included 531 HCW. The median age was 40 years. HCW belonged to surgical departments (36.9%) and were nurses (32.4%). The median delay to RTW was 15 days (IQR: 13-18). At the RTW medical visit, certain anxiety and depression were found in 36.5% and 33.3% of the patients respectively. The perceived work ability was evaluated as good to very good in 37.8% of cases. The delay to RTW increased proportionally with a better-perceived work ability (p = 0.007). CONCLUSION Our study described the perceived work ability and the prevalence of anxiety and depression among the HCW at the RTW medical visit after COVID-19 infection in the early stages of the pandemic. Specific strategies for RTW after COVID-19 should take into consideration the mental health and work ability of HCW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imen Youssfi
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Najla Mechergui
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medecine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hiba Ziedi
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mariem Mersni
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medecine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Siwar Chemingui
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Wala Haouari
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Dorra Aouida
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Youssef
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medecine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nizar Ladhari
- Department of Occupational Medecine, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medecine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Temeng E, Hewitt R, Pattinson R, Sydor A, Whybrow D, Watts T, Bundy C. Nurses' coping strategies caring for patients during severe viral pandemics: A mixed-methods systematic review. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:242-254. [PMID: 37032642 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses play an essential role in responding to severe viral disease which bring considerable challenges to their personal and professional well-being. This subsequently can affect the delivery of care and healthcare systems' organisational capacity to respond. Understanding nurses' experiences of these challenges will help inform healthcare policies. AIM To explore the experiences and coping strategies of nurses caring for patients during severe viral disease pandemics. DESIGN A mixed-methods systematic review informed by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology. METHODS A mixed-methods systematic review. Five electronic databases Medline, CINAHL, PsychInfo, ASSIA and Scopus were searched on 4th April 2021. Results were reported in accordance with PRISMA. The findings were analysed and reported in the context of the Self-Regulatory Common-Sense Model. RESULTS In total, 71 peer-review primary research articles describing nurses' experiences of caring for patients during SARS, MERS, Swine flu H1N1, Avian influenza or SARS-CoV-2 / COVID-19 published in English from 2003 to 2021 were included. We found links between nurses' perception of the health threats, their emotional reactions, and coping strategies. Perceived health threats were influenced by organisational factors including frequent changes in clinical guidelines and workplace protocols, onerous workloads and working hours, unavailability of PPE, and lack of knowledge and training in pandemic management. These impacted nurses' physical, psychological and social well-being. Nurses also reported helpful and unhelpful coping strategies to manage the health threats. CONCLUSIONS It is vital for stakeholders, policymakers, government and healthcare institutions to recognise and monitor the wider impact on healthcare workers from health emergencies. In addition, support to develop and implement effective systems and individual mechanisms to offset the anticipated impact pre and post pandemics/epidemics is needed. Our findings can inform those strategies for similar future health emergencies. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Nurses are often the first point of contact in providing direct care to patients, hence they are at high risk of being infected. The findings from this review can help managers and policymakers in developing programmes to enhance resilience in the nursing workforce. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION This was a literature review study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunice Temeng
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rachael Hewitt
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Anna Sydor
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Dean Whybrow
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Tessa Watts
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Chris Bundy
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Han SJ, Yeun YR. Psychological Intervention to Promote Resilience in Nurses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 12:73. [PMID: 38200980 PMCID: PMC10778738 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12010073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Nurses primarily focus on caring for others, but they also require care and support to enhance their own resilience. Thus, this study aims to determine the effects of psychological interventions on nurses' resilience support and to define the influence of moderating variables that can affect these effects. The literature search was conducted in 10 electronic databases, and 5 randomized controlled trials and 10 non-randomized controlled trials were finally selected for analysis (a total of 852 participants). Statistical analyses of the effect sizes and homogeneity of the intervention programs were conducted using RevMan 5.3 from the Cochrane Library and the R program. Publication bias in the retrieved studies was tested using contour-enhanced funnel plots. The meta-analysis found that psychological interventions were effective in improving nurses' resilience immediately after the intervention (SMD = 0.59, 95% CI 0.31 to 0.86, Z = 4.18, p < 0.001) and in the short term within three months (SMD = 1.52, 95% CI 0.74 to 2.31, Z = 3.80, p < 0.001). Interventions using emotion regulation, relaxation, and self-compassion were particularly effective, and the intervention period was effective in both a short period of 1 day and a long period of more than 12 weeks. In addition, the optimal one-session time was 121-150 min, and offline interventions were more effective than online interventions. Furthermore, the effect size was affected by the intervention time for one session (QB = 12.02, df = 3, p = 0.007) and the on/offline intervention method (QB = 5.85, df = 1, p = 0.015). These findings may inform the development of targeted interventions and resilience support systems for nurses. However, in the future, more rigorous studies, such as randomized controlled trials, should be conducted to ensure strict control over the variables and to establish a stronger evidence base for the effectiveness of these interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suk-Jung Han
- College of Nursing, Sahmyook University, Seoul 01795, Republic of Korea;
| | - Young-Ran Yeun
- College of Nursing, Kangwon National University, Samcheok 25649, Republic of Korea
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Fowlis N, Barnett N, Banks S, Jubraj B. A qualitative evaluation of weekly reflective practice sessions for the intensive care unit pharmacy team during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2023; 31:57-62. [PMID: 35428696 PMCID: PMC10800256 DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2021-003164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite well-being initially being high on the agenda for UK health organisations, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted significant gaps around provision for well-being of pharmacists in the UK. The COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) environment exposed pharmacists to mental, physical and emotional challenges, including high levels of patient mortality. OBJECTIVES To provide an account of the experience of pharmacists working within an ICU at a large National Health Service hospital who attended reflective practice sessions throughout the first wave of the pandemic. METHOD A retrospective, cross-sectional design was used to gather information from eight participants who had attended nine, 30-minute weekly reflective practice sessions. Participants were invited to complete a 10-item online self-report questionnaire. The responses from the questionnaire were analysed using theoretical thematic analysis. RESULTS Seven participants completed the self-report questionnaire. Thematic analysis of responses identified four themes: (1) permission: both professional and personal 'permission' was necessary for participants to be present for the reflective practice sessions and to attend to their own well-being; (2) containing safe space: reflective practice sessions offered a consistently secure environment from which to explore topics which created challenge, personally and/or professionally; (3) connectedness: the impact of these sessions on participants' relationships with other attendees, as individuals and the group as a whole; and (4) emotional experience: increased awareness of developments around their expression, processing and management of emotion as a result of attending the sessions. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new and important insights into the use of reflective practice for pharmacists working in an ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings demonstrate heterogeneity in the experience of distress, the need to support the pharmacy profession, and the need to provide opportunities for staff to connect safely with colleagues during such crises. The impact of organisation-led support for the pharmacy profession is discussed as a future direction of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naima Fowlis
- Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
| | - Nina Barnett
- Care of Older People, NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service, England and London North West Healthcare NHS Trust, Middx, UK
| | - Sara Banks
- Northwick Park Hospital, Harrow, London, UK
| | - Barry Jubraj
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
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Yan L, Li J, Lin P, Sun J. Psychological Stress and Coping Strategy Profiles Among Frontline Medical Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic. J Nerv Ment Dis 2023; 211:954-960. [PMID: 38015185 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study aimed to explore coping strategy profiles used by frontline medical workers and the psychological stress reactions associated with each category, in the COVID-19 pandemic context. Participants were 651 frontline medical workers recruited between February and March 2020. Psychological stress reactions (e.g., anxiety, depression) and coping strategies were assessed and analyzed using latent profile analysis and linear regression. Participants had three coping strategy profiles: coping inadequately (28.9%), coping appropriately (64.4%), and coping excessively (6.7%). Compared with coping appropriately, those who coped inadequately and excessively had higher psychological stress reactions levels. Levels of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder in excessive-coping individuals were higher than those who coped inadequately. Our findings elucidate the effectiveness of different coping strategy profiles and provide insights for developing targeted interventions to mitigate stress among medical workers. In light of these results, we recommend implementing stress management programs tailored to specific coping strategy profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Yan
- General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan
| | - Jiahuan Li
- School of Health and Nursing, Zhenjiang College, Zhenjiang
| | | | - Jiwei Sun
- School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Mittermeier I, Merlic D, Braschl S, Sealtiel L, Weilnhammer V, Quartucci C, Weinmann T, Adorjan K, Gerstner D, Heinze S, Herr C, Sirrenberg M. Mental health and work-related factors in healthcare workers in a pandemic - meta-analysis. PSYCHOL HEALTH MED 2023; 28:3005-3051. [PMID: 36967568 DOI: 10.1080/13548506.2023.2193750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
Abstract
Due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, healthcare workers worldwide faced major challenges in the form of psychological stress. The aim of this systematic literature review and meta-analysis is to identify mental health consequences and associated work-related factors in healthcare workers during a pandemic and to quantify the influence of associated work-related factors on mental health consequences. A systematic literature search according to PRISMA was conducted on 5 August 2021 using the databases PubMed Central and APA PsychInfo. The included studies investigated the mental health consequences and associated work-related factors in healthcare workers in a pandemic. In addition, we performed a risk of bias analysis to assess the study quality of the included studies using the JBI checklists. Random-effect models and pooled effect estimators were used for the meta-analysis. The Chi2 and I2 statistics were used to identify the statistical heterogeneity. Additional sensitivity analysis was performed. From a total of 3,910 publications, 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies provided 15 stress consequences and 20 stress factors. The most frequently reported stress factors were 'contact with COVID-19 patients', 'no education or training in handling infectious diseases' and 'insufficient protective equipment'. Anxiety, stress, and depression were the most common outcomes identified. Analyses showed an increase in anxiety scores among HCWs who cared for COVID-19 patients, as well as a rise in depressive symptoms due to inadequate or no personal protective equipment. In this review, various pandemic-associated stress factors and stress consequences of healthcare workers were observed. With the results, criteria for effective measures and interventions can be developed to minimize the risk of stress consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Mittermeier
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Deborah Merlic
- Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology (IBE) at the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie Braschl
- TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Luca Sealtiel
- TUM Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Veronika Weilnhammer
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Caroline Quartucci
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Weinmann
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Kristina Adorjan
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Doris Gerstner
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Heinze
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Caroline Herr
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute and Clinic for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, University Hospital, Munich, Germany
| | - Manuela Sirrenberg
- Institute for Occupational Health and Product Safety Environmental Health, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
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Bakhsh LS, AlHazmi A, BaMohammed A, Binishaq E, Abdullah G, Bajal R, Al Ramamneh I. Emotions, Perceived Stressors, and Coping Strategies Among Nursing Staff in Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Cureus 2023; 15:e48284. [PMID: 38058321 PMCID: PMC10696279 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in heightened stress for nurses and other healthcare workers, particularly during the initial phase of the crisis. Despite the adoption of various coping strategies, psychological distress persisted, affecting nurses' well-being and jeopardizing the overall resilience of the healthcare system. This study assessed the emotional response, perceived stressors, and coping strategies among nurses' staff who worked during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic. Method A cross-sectional study was carried out among nurses who worked during the initial phase of the COVID-19 crisis (June - August 2020), at a tertiary care center in Western Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire explored five main sections. The first section (15 items) assessed emotions experienced during the initial wave of COVID-19, capturing both positive and negative sentiments, such as "joy" or "fear." The second section (20 items) examined the presence of stressors, like "lack of protective equipment" or "fear of infection." The third section (14 items) evaluated the perceived effectiveness of certain stress-reducing factors, including "peer support" or "training." In the fourth section (13 items), participants rated their usage frequency of various coping strategies, such as "meditation" or "seeking advice." Lastly, the fifth section assessed the hypothetical impact of 10 incentives, like "financial bonuses" or "additional training," in motivating nurses' involvement in future epidemic responses. The questionnaire was completed with demographic and professional data. A convenience sampling method was employed, and 315 nurses participated in the study. Descriptive statistics were carried out using SPSS version 24 for Windows (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Result The most commonly experienced emotion was a feeling of responsibility and ethical duty, reported by 97.5% of the participants, followed by nervousness and fear (83.8%), anger (73.3%), and stigma (70.2%). On the other hand, 86.7% were expecting a financial compensation. The most common stressors were related to the nurses' own safety, or the safety of their families and colleagues, reported by 92.4-95.2% of the participants. The perceived uncontrollability of COVID-19 was also a significant stressor. The improvement of the health status of infected colleagues (98.1%) or patients (97.5%) were the most common factors associated with the reduction in nurses' stress. Among the coping strategies, five were almost systematically deployed by the nurses (>95%), all consisting of cognitive and behavioral mechanisms to enhance own knowledge and safety and avoid being infected. The most crucial determinants for commitment in future pandemics are the availability of a cure or vaccine (93.3%), family support (91.4%), adequate personal protective equipment from the hospital (90.8%), and exemption from overtime (90.2%). Conclusion The first wave of COVID-19 exerted a tremendous psychological stress on nurses, due to concerns about safety, disease uncertainties, and social isolation. Analyzing these impacts offers insights for enhancing institutional and national crisis strategies, emphasizing staff safety and psychological well-being, especially for first responders like nurses. Policy implications include prioritizing mental health support and preparedness in future crisis plans. Additionally, ensuring continuous training and strategic workload management is crucial for maintaining frontline commitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamees S Bakhsh
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Abeer AlHazmi
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Alla BaMohammed
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Eiman Binishaq
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ghadah Abdullah
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Razaz Bajal
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Ibrahim Al Ramamneh
- Department of Nursing, King Abdulaziz University Faculty of Medicine, Jeddah, SAU
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Hummel S, Michelsen I, Zafar A, Moritz S, Benoy C, Lemogne C, Almeida R, Losada R, Ribeiro O, Frisardi V, Tarricone I, Ferrari S, Dechent F, Huber CG, Weidt S, Mayer G, Schultz JH. Unmet Psychosocial Needs of Health Care Professionals in Europe During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mixed Methods Approach. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2023; 9:e45664. [PMID: 37672320 PMCID: PMC10484324 DOI: 10.2196/45664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic severely affected everyday life and working conditions for most Europeans, particularly health care professionals (HCPs). Over the past 3 years, various policies have been implemented in various European countries. Studies have reported on the worsening of mental health, work-related stress, and helpful coping strategies. However, having a closer look is still necessary to gain more information on the psychosocial stressors and unmet needs of HCPs as well as nonmedical staff. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to obtain quantitative information on job-related stressors of physicians and nurses and the coping strategies of HCPs and nonmedical staff at 2 periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. By further analyzing qualitative comments, we wanted to gain more information on the psychosocial stressors and unmet needs of HCPs as well as nonmedical staff on different levels of experience. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted at 2 time points during the COVID-19 pandemic in several European countries. The first study period (T1) lasted between April 1 and June 20, 2020, and the second study period (T2) lasted between November 25, 2021, and February 28, 2022. On a quantitative level, we used a questionnaire on stressors for physicians and nurses and a questionnaire on coping strategies for HCPs and nonmedical staff. Quantitative data were descriptively analyzed for mean values and differences in stressors and coping strategies. Qualitative data of free-text boxes of HCPs and nonmedical staff were analyzed via thematic analysis to explore the experiences of the individuals. RESULTS T1 comprised 609 participants, and T2 comprised 1398 participants. Overall, 296 participants made 438 qualitative comments. The uncertainty about when the pandemic would be controlled (T1: mean 2.28, SD 0.85; T2: mean 2.08, SD 0.90) and the fear of infecting the family (T1: mean 2.26, SD 0.98; T2: mean 2.02, SD 1.02) were the most severe stressors identified by physicians and nurses in both periods. Overall, the use of protective measures (T1: mean 2.66, SD 0.60; T2: mean 2.66, SD 0.60) and acquiring information about COVID-19 (T1: mean 2.29, SD 0.82; T2: mean 1.99, SD 0.89) were identified as the most common coping strategies for the entire study population. Using thematic analysis, we identified 8 themes of personal experiences on the micro, meso, and macro levels. Measures, working conditions, feelings and emotions, and social climate were frequently mentioned topics of the participants. In T1, feelings of isolation and uncertainty were prominent. In T2, feelings of exhaustion were expressed and vaccination was frequently discussed. Moreover, unmet psychosocial needs were identified. CONCLUSIONS There is a need for improvement in pandemic preparedness. Targeted vocational education measures and setting up of web-based mental health support could be useful to bridge gaps in psychosocial support needs in future crises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svenja Hummel
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ina Michelsen
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ali Zafar
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Moritz
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Charles Benoy
- Centre Hospitalier Neuro-Psychiatrique Luxembourg, Ettelbrück, Luxembourg
| | - Cédric Lemogne
- Université Paris Cité and Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, INRAE, Center for Research in Epidemiology and StatisticS (CRESS), Service de Psychiatrie de l'adulte, AP-HP, Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, Paris, France
| | - Rosa Almeida
- INTRAS Research, Innovation and Knowledge Unit, Intras Foundation, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Raquel Losada
- INTRAS Research, Innovation and Knowledge Unit, Intras Foundation, Valladolid, Spain
| | - Oscar Ribeiro
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS) at the Associate Laboratory RISE - Health Research Network, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Vincenza Frisardi
- Geriatric Unit, IRCCS-AOU BO, Policlinico San't Orsola, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ilaria Tarricone
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Silvia Ferrari
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena & Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Frieder Dechent
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian G Huber
- University Psychiatric Clinics Basel, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Steffi Weidt
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gwendolyn Mayer
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jobst-Hendrik Schultz
- Department of General Internal Medicine and Psychosomatics, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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Jaywant A, Aulitzky W, Avari J, Buchheim A, Dubin M, Galffy M, Khoodoruth MAS, Maytal G, Skelin M, Sperner-Unterweger B, Barnhill JW, Fleischhacker WW. Multinational perspectives on changes to psychiatric care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a survey of practicing psychiatrists. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE : KLINIK, DIAGNOSTIK, THERAPIE UND REHABILITATION : ORGAN DER GESELLSCHAFT OSTERREICHISCHER NERVENARZTE UND PSYCHIATER 2023; 37:115-121. [PMID: 36600105 PMCID: PMC9812354 DOI: 10.1007/s40211-022-00452-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant upheaval in psychiatric care. Despite survey data collected from psychiatric patients and broad samples of individuals in single countries, there is little quantitative or qualitative data on changes to psychiatric care from the perspective of mental health providers themselves across developing countries. METHODS To address this gap, we surveyed 27 practicing psychiatrists from Central and Eastern Europe, as well as Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. RESULTS Respondents observed a marked increase in anxiety in their patients, with increased (though less prominent) symptoms of depression, somatization, and addiction. They reported largescale changes in the structure of psychiatric treatment, chiefly a decline in psychiatric admissions and closing/repurposing of psychiatric beds. Results supported strong "buy in" from clinicians regarding the use of telehealth, though some clinicians perceived a reduction in the ability to connect with, and build alliances with, their patients. Finally, clinicians described an improvement in the image and meaning of psychiatry in society, increased awareness of mental illness, and greater value placed on mental health in the general population. CONCLUSIONS These changes warrant further empirical study as to their potential long-term ramifications, particularly as the COVID-19 pandemic persists and new waves of infection occur periodically throughout the world. The increased psychiatric burden on the population coupled with the apparent salience of mental health and well-being in the public consciousness represents a global opportunity for psychiatry to advocate for further treatment, research, and education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Jaywant
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Weill Cornell Medicine/NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, 525 E 68th St, Baker F-1232, 10065, New York, NY, USA.
| | | | - Jimmy Avari
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Marc Dubin
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Guy Maytal
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marta Skelin
- University Psychiatric Hospital Vrapce, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - John W Barnhill
- Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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11
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Lau HCQ, Soe NN, Chua SQM, Lee JCS, Sulaiman S. Resilience and emotions of frontline obstetrics and gynaecology healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Singapore Med J 2023:384053. [PMID: 37675680 DOI: 10.4103/singaporemedj.smj-2022-027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hester Chang Qi Lau
- Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Ni Ni Soe
- Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Shi Qi Monica Chua
- Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Jill Cheng Sim Lee
- Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
| | - Suzanna Sulaiman
- Senior Resident, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore
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12
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Marair SA, Slater N. Middle Eastern nurses' views/experiences of work and well-being with the support measures during past disease outbreaks and COVID-19: a qualitative systematic review. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:230. [PMID: 37400825 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01343-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potential psychological health impact of pandemics on nurses has been increasingly widely recognised, as have recommendations to establish support measures for nurses' well-being. Despite the availability of support measures significant number of nurses still experienced burnout and mental distress during Covid-19. Few efforts have been made in the wider literature to understand how nurses experience well-being support or how they perceive it affects their well-being during pandemics. In the Middle East, understanding and exploring well-being support measures during pandemics from nurses' perspectives has not received significant attention. OBJECTIVE To investigate nurses' perspectives and experiences of well-being support measures during prior pandemics and the Covid-19 pandemic in the Middle East. METHODS A systematic qualitative review was undertaken utilising the JBI model as a framework. Searches were carried out in databases comprised CINAHL, MEDLINE, NUsearch Library of Nottingham University and Google Scholar. Moreover, a manual search through reference lists for relevant studies were carried out. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Eleven studies were included in the review. The findings from the included qualitative studies were extracted using the JBI-QARI data extraction tool for qualitative research. The results were synthesised using a meta-synthesis in line with the JBI approach. RESULTS The included studies yielded an aggregate of 111 findings and were categorised into 14 categories, followed by four synthesised findings. These were: [1] nurses experienced challenges during MERS, yet different strategies were implemented by leaders and nurses to manage these challenges; [2] some well-being support measures were unfulfilled during Covid-19; [3] additional aspects compounded negatively on nurses' well- being; and [4] nurses showed maturity during Covid-19. CONCLUSION In comparison to prior health emergencies, well-being support measures during Covid-19 were not sufficiently adopted. Nurse policymakers and managers should consider these support measures to correspond with nurses' needs and explore the contextual factors that affect their implementation. TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO (CRD42022344005).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Ahmed Marair
- King Saud Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG1 5NT, UK.
| | - Nigel Slater
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG1 5NT, UK
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Lambotte I, Dussart H, Reis J, Frippiat J, Van Pevenage C, Duret I, Delvenne V, Rotsaert M, Marchini S, Deplus S, Tiete J. Emotional status of children aged 7 to 17 of health workers and in the general population during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional comparative study in Belgium. NEUROPSYCHIATRIE DE L'ENFANCE ET DE L'ADOLESCENCE 2023; 71:194-200. [PMID: 37292448 PMCID: PMC10121103 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurenf.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Background We assessed the mental health of children and adolescents aged 7 to 17 and their parents immediately after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Method A survey online was conducted in Belgium between May 29th and August 31st 2020. Results (1) Anxious and depressive symptoms were self-reported by one out of four children and hetero-reported by parents for one out of five children; (2) Anxiety scores were higher in children compared to adolescents; (3) Social introversion scores were significantly higher in adolescents compared to children; (4) No significant differences for anxio-depressive symptoms were found between healthcare worker parents and the other parents. Children's self- or hetero-reported symptoms were not found to be connected to parents' professional activities. Conclusions This cross-sectional survey adds evidence to the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on children's and adolescents' emotional state, in particular on their levels of anxiety and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Lambotte
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Harmony Dussart
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Joana Reis
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Jessica Frippiat
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Claire Van Pevenage
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Duret
- Service de psychologie du développement et de la famille, faculté des sciences psychologiques et de l'éducation, ULB (Université Libre de Bruxelles), 50 C.P. 122, avenue Franklin-Roosevelt, 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Véronique Delvenne
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Marianne Rotsaert
- Hôpital Erasme, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 808, route de Lennik, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Simone Marchini
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Sandrine Deplus
- Huderf - Hôpital Universitaire des Enfants Reine Fabiola, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 15, avenue J.-J.-Crocq, 1020 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Julien Tiete
- Hôpital Erasme, H.U.B - Hôpital Universitaire de Bruxelles, 808, route de Lennik, 1070 Bruxelles, Belgium
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Koda M, Horinouchi T, Oya N, Aki M, Iriki A, Yoshida K, Ogawa Y, Kuga H, Nakao T. Effectiveness of psychological first aid in infectious disease pandemics: An overview of systematic reviews. PCN REPORTS : PSYCHIATRY AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCES 2023; 2:e107. [PMID: 38868135 PMCID: PMC11114278 DOI: 10.1002/pcn5.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
There is insufficient research on the usefulness of psychological interventions, such as psychological first aid (PFA), during outbreaks. We searched for and critically appraised systematic reviews that examined the effectiveness of PFA during infectious disease outbreaks, such as the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Systematic reviews that examined the efficacy of PFA in the severe acute respiratory syndrome, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, Ebola virus disease, and COVID-19 outbreaks were searched through PubMed on February 19, 2021. The three included systematic reviews were critically appraised and assessed using AMSTAR-2. One review's overall confidence in its findings was evaluated as "high," which suggested that PFA training had a favorable effect on healthcare personnel. Furthermore, the review also demonstrated that PFA was commonly used during outbreaks and could be delivered through multiple methods, such as a phone or video call. Although it was anticipated that PFA would improve subjective well-being, reports showed no evidence of reduced depression or insomnia. Future studies should examine additional numbers of PFA recipients and conduct quasi-experimental studies to better understand the effectiveness of PFA. Evidence on its effectiveness in infectious disease outbreaks is still lacking, along with research and evaluation methods. Quasi-experimental studies, such as comparisons with other psychological interventions, are required to better understand the effectiveness of PFA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahide Koda
- Co‐Learning Community Healthcare Re‐Innovation OfficeGraduate School of MedicineOkayamaJapan
| | - Toru Horinouchi
- Department of PsychiatryHokkaido University Graduate School of MedicineHokkaidoJapan
| | - Nozomu Oya
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of Medical ScienceKyoto Prefectural University of MedicineKyotoJapan
| | - Morio Aki
- Department of Psychiatry, Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | | | - Kazufumi Yoshida
- Department of Health Promotion and Human Behavior, Graduate School of Medicine/School of Public HealthKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Yusuke Ogawa
- Department of Healthcare Epidemiology, School of Public Health in the Graduate School of MedicineKyoto UniversityKyotoJapan
| | - Hironori Kuga
- National Center for Cognitive Behavior Therapy and ResearchNational Center of Neurology and PsychiatryTokyoJapan
| | - Tomohiro Nakao
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Graduate School of Medical SciencesKyushu UniversityFukuokaJapan
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15
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Guo Z, Wu K, Shan H, Kim Y, He Q. Experience of chinese counter-marching nurses with COVID-19 patients' death in Wuhan: a qualitative study. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:141. [PMID: 37106366 PMCID: PMC10133906 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01270-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic was occurring worldwide with over a 6.5 million deaths. It's important to explore the instructions for the global nursing community by identifying the personal coping methods of Chinese nurses in Wuhan to deal with patient deaths. METHODOLOGY The study used a qualitative conventional content analysis with 14 Chinese Counter-marching nurses. Purposive sampling, snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used for participants and data collection. To assess the quality of the findings, Guba and Lincoln's criteria for confidence were fulfilled. RESULTS The data analysis results in 4 main categories:(1) psychological shocks related to COVID-19 patient's death; (2) personal psychological adjustment and demands; (3) insights on life and values; (4) Needs for relevant knowledge and skills. CONCLUSIONS During the outbreak of the epidemic or pandemic, adequate psychological care resources need to be provided to nurses when facing the death of infectious patients, to reduce the negative emotions brought by death. Effective coping strategies should also be formulated to enhance their resilience and promote their professional competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhifang Guo
- College of Nursing, Dali University, Dali, China
| | - Kunli Wu
- Department of Infection Disease, Kunming Third People's Hospital, Kunming, China
| | - Huibin Shan
- People's Hospital of Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Dali, China
| | - Younglee Kim
- Department of Nursing, College of Natural Science, California State University, San Bernardino, CA, 92407, USA
| | - Qilian He
- College of Nursing, Dali University, Dali, China.
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16
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Park SY, Cheong HS, Kwon KT, Sohn KM, Heo ST, Lee S, Chung US, Lee SH. Guidelines for Infection Control and Burnout Prevention in Healthcare Workers Responding to COVID-19. Infect Chemother 2023; 55:150-165. [PMID: 37021430 PMCID: PMC10079438 DOI: 10.3947/ic.2022.0164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) suffered more distress from the possibility of contracting the virus, quarantine, social stigma, and prejudice against their families. Many studies have investigated the impact of the pandemic on HCWs; however, studies or guidelines presenting strategies to overcome these challenges are lacking. As part of a 2020 research project supported by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, titled "Health impact assessment of healthcare workers undertaking coronavirus disease 2019 treatment and management in Korea: Identifying problems and researching effective solutions" (HC20C0003), we created guidelines to respond to serious problems posed by infection control. and burnout among HCWs during COVID-19 response measures throughout the extended pandemic period. We formulated the guidelines by means of a systematic review and collated them with the latest literature. The guidelines will highlight the gravity and impact of infection control and burnout among HCWs responding to COVID-19 and include potential prevention strategies, and they can be used as a reference in the event of another emerging infectious disease outbreak in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Se Yoon Park
- Department of Hospital Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Korea
- Department of Biomedical Systems Informatics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Centers for Digital Health, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University Health System, Yongin, Korea
| | - Hae Suk Cheong
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Sungkyunkwan University, School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Tae Kwon
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea.
| | - Kyung Mok Sohn
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Sang Taek Heo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jeju National University School of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
| | - Shinwon Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine and Medical Research Institute, Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Un Sun Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Korea
| | - So Hee Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, National Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
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17
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Çakmak HSG, Öcal Ş, Kapucu S. EXPERIENCES OF TURKISH NURSES WITH COVID-19 INFECTION IN PANDEMIC AND POST-PANDEMIC: A QUALITATIVE STUDY. NURSE LEADER 2023; 21:S1541-4612(23)00047-2. [PMID: 36817864 PMCID: PMC9922581 DOI: 10.1016/j.mnl.2023.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
In the most difficult times of epidemics, the importance of the role of nurses is greater than ever. In our study we aimed to determine the experiences of Turkish nurses with COVID-19 infection about the process ın pandemıc and post-pandemıc. The study was conducted in a qualitative research format with a semi-structured interview form including nurses who had COVID-19 infection and then returned to work. The post-pandemic interview was held approximately 2 years after the first interview. The first interview sample consisted of 21 nurses who recovered from COVID-19 infection and The data were collected between September and December 2020. In the second interview, 11 nurses were reached in January 2023. The first interview themes obtained at the end of the interview were (1) fear and anxiety, (2) worthlessness, (3) questioning and regret, and (4) power. The second interview themes obtained at the end of the interview were (1) health perception, (2) profession perception. The pandemic and post pandemic is a process that challenges nurses mentally and physically. Nurses have taken important roles in the pandemic period since the first stage. In order for nurses to fulfill their duties from now on, the difficulties experienced by the nurse staff should be aware of and arrangements should be made regarding the working area. Nurses and other health practitioners need support in challenging situations. Policies should be developed to support healthcare professionals who are fighting at the forefront in crisis situations such as pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Şeyma Öcal
- Çankırı Karatekin University, Internal Medicine Nursing Department, Çankırı, Turkey
| | - Sevgisun Kapucu
- Faculty of Nursing, Internal Medicine Nursing Department, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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18
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Khademi Z, Imani E. Frontline Nurses' Experiences of Patient Care in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Phenomenological Study. J Caring Sci 2023; 12:42-49. [PMID: 37124405 PMCID: PMC10131169 DOI: 10.34172/jcs.2023.30327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is now a major public health crisis in the world. Nurses as key members of professional are exposed the most challenges caused by COVID19. Knowledgeable nurses' experiences can provide appropriate solutions to increase the quality of care and improve the health of the society. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of nurses' caring for patients with COVID-19. Methods: 12 nurses participated in this phenomenological study. We performed purposeful sampling and in-depth face-to-face and semi-structured individual interviews for collecting data. Qualitative data, was analyzed by the 6-step Van Manen hermeneutic phenomenology. Results: After data analysis, the mean (SD) age of study participants was 32.25 (5.62) years and their mean work experience was 9.75 (5.39) years. From the analysis of data obtained from interviews with nurses working in COVID-19 wards, 1050 primary codes, 17 subthemes and 5 themes were extracted. Main themes include: sincere service, patient oppression, emotional instability, suspension and relaxation. Conclusion: Analysis of data in this study suggested that the nurses who care patients in COVID-19 pandemic, faced many professional and psychological challenges. Healthcare managers should plan for psychological support services for the nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Khademi
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Elham Imani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
- *Corresponding Author: Elham Imani,
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19
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Pourgholam N, Zareiyan A, Farsi Z, Abbasiyan K. Exploring perceived stress from caring for coronavirus disease (COVID-19) patients in nurses: a qualitative study. J Res Nurs 2023; 28:38-50. [PMID: 36919106 PMCID: PMC9790853 DOI: 10.1177/17449871221131181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus pandemic has increased the perceived stress among people worldwide. The new coronavirus issue has recently put nursing staff under severe stress. Aims This study aimed to evaluate the stress perceived by nurses in caring for new coronavirus patients. Methods This qualitative conventional content analysis was conducted from February and March 2021. Twelve nurses working in the inpatient care wards for COVID-19 patients in Tehran hospitals were enrolled using purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews and collection continued until reaching data saturation. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, reviewed and analysed using the Graneheim and Lundman method. Results One main category, five categories and 19 sub-categories emerged from the data. The nurses experienced 'the process of transition from unknown conditions'. Caregiving stress, impression on all aspects of life, COVID as a strange disease, stress caused by patient characteristics and stress reduction over time were issues in the formation of stress in nurses caring for patients with COVID-19. Conclusions The findings indicated that nurses caring for COVID-19 patients experience varying levels of stress for a variety of interrelated reasons. Knowing how nurses perceive the stress of caring for patients with COVID-19 can aid in the development of practical steps to reduce stress and make nurses more comfortable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Pourgholam
- PhD, Public Health Department, School of Nursing, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Armin Zareiyan
- Associate Professor, Public Health Department, School of Nursing, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Farsi
- Professor, Research and Community Health Departments, Faculty of Nursing, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Koorosh Abbasiyan
- Assistant Professor, Health Management Department, School of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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20
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Lee HL, Chang PJ, Lin LC. An Exploratory Study of Nurses' Feelings about COVID-19 after Experiencing SARS. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:2256. [PMID: 36767622 PMCID: PMC9915139 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20032256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003 in Taiwan impacted Taiwanese society. However, the first case of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was reported in Wuhan and spread around the world. During these outbreaks, nursing staff experienced different levels of pressure. Studies have explored the stress and adjustment of nurses during these periods, but studies describing the feelings of nurses during both SARS and COVID-19 outbreaks are lacking. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of nurses who had cared for both SARS and COVID-19 patients. A qualitative study combined with snowball sampling was applied. Semi-structured questions were used to interview 10 nurses who had experienced both SARS and COVID-19. Two themes and four sub-themes were analyzed, which were: facing the epidemic from the unknown to known; and the experiences from ignorance to proficiency. The sub-themes were: the feeling of frustration and concern; bottlenecks and pressures in my work; my mission and support; and positive energy and camaraderie. The results showed that the media acts as an important resource during disease outbreaks; therefore, government departments have to use their wisdom to make good use of the media. Secondly, understanding the general public's response to the disease is also important for first-line nurses. Finally, on-the-job education and guidelines for first-line nurses are necessary, and support from the administration is also important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ling Lee
- Department of Nursing, University of Kang Ning, Taipei 114311, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Ju Chang
- Chang Hua Hospital, MOHW, Changhua 513007, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chiu Lin
- Nursing Department, Hong Kuang University, Taichung City 433304, Taiwan
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21
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Shamsalinia A, Mahmoudian A, Bahrami S, Ghaffari F. Risk factors and the psychological impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak: perspectives and experiences of Iranian healthcare workers on the frontline. DISASTERS 2023; 47:114-135. [PMID: 35043991 DOI: 10.1111/disa.12532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Frontline healthcare workers (HCWs) looking after COVID-19 patients are at high risk of developing mental health problems. Both preventive and interventional initiatives are essential, therefore, to maintain and improve the mental health of HCWs and ultimately to enhance the quality of care that they provide. This qualitative content analysis study, conducted in Iran between September 2020 and February 2021, involved the gathering of data on the issue through face-to-face interviews with 22 HCWs working directly with COVID-19 patients. Data analysis led to the generation of 163 codes, 45 categories (16 risk factors and 29 consequences), and 9 themes. Overall, the results suggest that caring for a patient with COVID-19 is associated with positive and negative psychological impacts. Measures such as increasing sensitivity to crisis situations, self-adjustment skills training, and identifying signs of job burnout owing to moral conflicts can reduce or eliminate the risk of negative psychological consequences among HCWs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbas Shamsalinia
- Associate Professor at the Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Amaneh Mahmoudian
- PhD in Nursing at the Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Sobhan Bahrami
- Assistant Professor at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ghaffari
- Associate Professor at the Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Salami Z, Mozaffari N, Mohammadi MA. Perceived stress and coping strategies among emergency department nurses and emergency medical services staff during the fifth wave of COVID-19 in Iran: A cross-sectional correlational study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AFRICA NURSING SCIENCES 2023; 18:100572. [PMID: 37123613 PMCID: PMC10110275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijans.2023.100572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose Emergency department (ED) nurses and emergency medical services (EMS) staff as the main parts of care on the front line of treatment during the outbreak of COVID-19 experienced great challenges in their work and life, which caused them a lot of stress. Since limited studies have investigated perceived stress and coping strategies among ED nurses and EMS staff in Iran, this study was conducted to investigate perceived stress and coping strategies among ED nurses and EMS staff during the outbreak of the fifth wave of COVID-19 in Ardabil, Iran. Materials and methods This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 327 ED nurses and EMS staff in 2021. The samples were selected by convenient sampling method, and data were collected by demographic and perceived stressors and coping strategies against the outbreak of COVID-19 questionnaires. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version 22) using descriptive (frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and analytical (Pearson correlation, t-test, and ANOVA) statistical tests and multiple linear regression analysis. Results The most stressful factors were related to the transmission of the disease to the family and seeing the death of COVID-19 patients in front of their eyes. The most commonly used coping strategies were strict personal protective measures for all hospitalized patients and the use of clothes that the hospital prepared separately to reduce the transmission of the virus. The results of multiple linear regression showed employees' emotions (β = 0.429, p < 0.001), gender (β = 0.225, p < 0.001), coping strategies (β = 0.209, p < 0.001), stress-reducing factors (β = 0.124, p = 0.014), worry (β = -0.182, p < 0.001), and workplace (β = -0.149, p = 0.045) were effective predictors of perceived stress. Conclusion Coping methods such as following strict personal protective measures, using special clothes, and seeing the recovery status of patients and colleagues were effective factors in reducing the perceived stress of health workers. Therefore, it is necessary to provide health workers with training on coping strategies and psychological support in the current crisis and possible epidemics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Salami
- Emergency Care Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - N Mozaffari
- Department of Critical Care Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - M A Mohammadi
- Department of Medical-Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing And Midwifery, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
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Chaudhari A, Solanki N, Sharma P, Patel P. A study on Instinctive Feelings, Perceived Stressors and Factors that helped in reducing Stress during COVID 19 pandemic among Health Care Workers. INDIAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.47203/ijch.2022.v34i04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background: Healthcare workers at the forefront of the battle against COVID 19 are not only putting their own health and lives at risk but are also fighting to keep their own worries and emotional stress at bay. Aim & Objective: To evaluate emotions, perceived stressors, and factors that helped in reducing stress of healthcare workers who worked during a COVID19 pandemic. Settings and Design: This cross sectional study was conducted among Health Care staff involved in COVID 19 duty in tertiary care hospital of Gujarat. Methods and Material: Google form link was shared though what’s up and mail. The questionnaire was completed online. Consent for voluntarily participation was also obtained through online Google form. Statistical analysis used: Data was entered and analysed through Microsoft Excel 2010. Results: Total 106 participants responded to the questionnaire. It was extremely stressful for health care workers to see their colleagues getting infection, as well as the fear that they could transmit the disease to their families or friends. Main factors that helped to reduce the stress were positive attitude from colleagues, improvement of patients conditions and availability of protective equipment. Conclusions: Personal safety, the protection of family members and unpredictability of pandemic were the main concerns. Hospitals should prioritise stress monitoring for health care workers and provide targeted psychological guidance for HCWs during the pandemic.
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Mejri I, Youssfi I, Znegui T, Mechergui N, El Kefi H, Hammami R, Chenik S, Ben Mansour A, Ben Saad S, Moatemri Z. Mental health status of healthcare workers at a third line Tunisian hospital during COVID-19 pandemic. LA TUNISIE MEDICALE 2022; 100:670-675. [PMID: 36571751 PMCID: PMC9833317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION During the COVID-19(coronavirus-19 disease) pandemic, health care workers (HCWs) faced the risk of infection and distressing work to meet health requirements. The aim of the present stud ywas to evaluate perceptions of HCWs of their security at work in COVID-19 units and their coping strategies, at the military hospital of Tunis, during the second wave of COVID-19. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted via an auto-questionnaire on February 2021.HCWs of the military hospital of Tunis were included. Participants were asked about their perceived security at work in COVID-19 units and their coping behaviors. Mental disorders were assessed, via qualitative questionnaires. RESULTS A total of 110 HCWs' responses were collected. Fifty-eight participants (52.7%) were females. The mean age was 33.7 years (SD 9.3). They were doctors at 45.5% and nurses at 39.1%. HCWs declared having worked in COVID-19 units in 81.8% of cases. The participants reported their fears about being infected in 58.2% and infecting family members in 85.5% of cases. Protective factors included information about the disease (80%), availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) (80.9%), support from colleagues(72.7%)or superiors at work (50.9%), and ability to communicate with others (63.6%). Depression, anxiety, and insomnia were found in respectively 25.5%, 30%, and 41.8% of HCWs. In multivariate analysis, suffering from a traumatic distress was significantly associated with anxiety and depression (p (p<0.01 and, p<0.05 respectively). In addition, insomnia severity was linked to age (p=0.05) and having colleagues infected with COVID-19 (p<0.05). CONCLUSION In the present study, HCWs of the military hospital of Tunis stated having high levels of insomnia, anxiety, and depression since the early outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. These mental disorders may have a negative impact on the quality of life of HCWs and should be enhanced by psychological support and preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Islam Mejri
- 1. Pneumology Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Youssfi
- 2. Occupational Health Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia, / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Tasnim Znegui
- 1. Pneumology Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nejla Mechergui
- 2. Occupational Health Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia, / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hamdi El Kefi
- 3. Psychiatry Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Rim Hammami
- 4. Emergency Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Sarra Chenik
- 5. Cardiology Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ameni Ben Mansour
- 6. Pneumology C Department, AbderrahmenMami Hospital of Ariana, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Soumaya Ben Saad
- 6. Pneumology C Department, AbderrahmenMami Hospital of Ariana, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Zied Moatemri
- 1. Pneumology Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia / Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Ahmead M, El Sharif N, Asad S. Healthcare Workers' Emotions, Perceived Stressors, and Coping Strategies at Workplace during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Palestine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11966. [PMID: 36231268 PMCID: PMC9565495 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191911966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Evidence about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Palestinian healthcare professionals is lacking and has been disregarded during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to describe Palestinian healthcare workers (HCWs) emotions and factors causing stress, and factors used to reduce the stress experienced at the workplace and to examine the relationships between HCWs level of stress and their coping strategies and motivational factors during the COVID-19 pandemic. A self-reported online survey was completed by 506 doctors and nurses working in healthcare facilities that provide COVID-19 care. Descriptive statistics, bivariate, and multivariate regression models were developed to adjust for the association between HCWs coping and motivation factors with HCWs' perceived stressors. The findings showed that 24.1% of the participants had a high-stress level, and 25.7% had a low level of stress. The participant's main coping strategy was avoidance and the key emotional factor was the ethical and professional obligation to continue working. Additionally, a major cause of their stress was their personal safety and having the COVID-19 infection. Findings showed a positive association between stress and the younger age of participants, with physicians being less stressed than nurses. In addition, receiving no training on the treatment of COVID-19 was strongly associated with stress levels. Furthermore, there was a significant positive correlation between stress scoring and coping strategies scoring but not with motivation score. In conclusion, this study shows that Palestinian healthcare workers experienced emotional turmoil during the COVID-19 pandemic. These results indicate the necessity of providing supervision, psychological counseling and intervention to professional healthcare workers who work directly with COVID-19 patients in health settings during the current pandemic or in the event of future outbreaks. Policymakers and managers must also conduct training and provide interventions on how to cope with stress in pandemics, in order to assist HCWs in developing their adaptive coping strategies and increase their motivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muna Ahmead
- Faculty of Public Health, AlQuds University, Jerusalem P.O. Box 51000, Palestine
| | - Nuha El Sharif
- Faculty of Public Health, AlQuds University, Jerusalem P.O. Box 51000, Palestine
| | - Samer Asad
- Ministry of Health, Ramallah 4284, Palestine
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Karanikola M, Mpouzika M, Papathanassoglou E, Kaikoushi K, Hatzioannou A, Leontiou I, Livadiotis C, Christophorou N, Chatzittofis A. Work-Related Traumatic Stress Response in Nurses Employed in COVID-19 Settings. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191711049. [PMID: 36078761 PMCID: PMC9518142 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191711049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nurses may be at a higher risk of experiencing work-related traumatic stress response during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to other clinicians. This study aimed to investigate the correlations between work-related trauma symptoms and demographic factors, psychosocial hazards and stress response in a census sample of nurses working in COVID-19 settings in Cyprus. In this nationwide descriptive and cross-sectional study, data were collected between April and May 2020 using a questionnaire that included sociodemographic, educational and employment and work-related variables, as well as a modified version of the Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS) for the assessment of work-related trauma symptoms during the pandemic. Overall, 233 nurses participated (with a response rate of 61.3%) and 25.7% of them reported clinical work-related trauma symptoms (STSS-M > 55; actual scale range: 17-85). The mean value for emotional exhaustion was 7.3 (SD: 2.29; visual scale range: 1-10), while the value for distress that was caused by being avoided due to work in COVID-19 units was 6.98 (SD: 2.69; visual scale range: 1-10). Positive associations were noted between trauma symptoms and both emotional exhaustion and distress from being avoided by others due to work in a COVID-19 setting and a negative association was also found between trauma symptoms and satisfaction from organizational support variables (all p < 0.002). Working in COVID-19 settings during the pandemic is a stressful experience that has been linked to psychologically traumatic symptoms Thus, supportive measures are proposed for healthcare personnel, even in countries with low COVID-19 burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Karanikola
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol 3041, Cyprus
| | - Meropi Mpouzika
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol 3041, Cyprus
| | | | | | - Anna Hatzioannou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol 3041, Cyprus
| | - Ioannis Leontiou
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol 3041, Cyprus
| | - Chris Livadiotis
- Department of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, Cyprus University of Technology, Limassol 3041, Cyprus
| | | | - Andreas Chatzittofis
- Medical School, University of Cyprus, Nicosia 1065, Cyprus
- Department of Clinical Sciences/Psychiatry, Umeå University, 901 85 Umeå, Sweden
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Goodarzi A, Khodaveisi M, Abdi A, Salimi R, Oshvandi K. Healthcare providers' experiences in hospital resuscitation of patients with COVID-19: a qualitative study. BMC Nurs 2022; 21:238. [PMID: 36008836 PMCID: PMC9406244 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-022-01020-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 epidemic has globally challenged medical practices, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Numerous challenges affect healthcare providers (HCPs) who are members of the resuscitation team and the resuscitation process in COVID-19 patients. As a result, HCPs may experience different dilemmas about CPR. Failure to recognize these experiences can harm both HCPs and patients. This study aimed to explore the HCP’s experiences of CPR in patients with COVID-19. Methods A qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 26 participants in the emergency departments of Besat, Golestan, and Imam Reza hospitals (in the west of Iran) using the hermeneutic phenomenology approach. The data were analyzed using the 6-step Smith interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) method. Results The mean age of the participants was 38 years. Most of them (61.5%) were male and had a Bachelor’s degree in nursing (46.1%).The data analysis resulted in extracting four super-ordinate and nine sub-ordinate themes. “Human aspects of Care”, “Perceived Psychological Effects of Resuscitation in COVID-19”, “HCP’s perceptions of factors affecting the resuscitation process in COVID-19”, and “Perceived differences in COVID-19 resuscitation compared to non-COVID patients” were super-ordinate themes. Conclusions The participants experienced a wide range of difficult feelings and emotions while resuscitating the patients with COVID-19, suggesting the effect of the COVID-19 epidemic on HCPs and the resuscitation process. They experienced stress and fear, and the resuscitation process was influenced by their compassion, underlying patient conditions, resuscitation futility, and participants’ fatigue or lack of oxygen due to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Goodarzi
- Department of medical emergency, Faculty of Paramedics, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Masoud Khodaveisi
- Chronic Diseases (Home Care) Research Center, Department of Community Health Nursing, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Alireza Abdi
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Rasoul Salimi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Besat Hospital, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Khodayar Oshvandi
- Mother and Child Care Research Center, Nursing and Midwifery School, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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SHAHOEI R, NEMATI SM, VALIEE S. Exploring the Experience of Nurses in Providing Care to Patients With COVID-19: A Qualitative Study. J Nurs Res 2022; 30:e217. [PMID: 35576060 PMCID: PMC9301688 DOI: 10.1097/jnr.0000000000000498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has caused conflicts in the world health system. The role of nurses is prominent because of their close contact with patients. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of nurses in providing care to patients with COVID-19. METHODS This phenomenological study was conducted in 2020. Purposive sampling was used and continued until data saturation. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 14 nurses at Tohid Hospital, Sanandaj, Iran, all of whom had experience providing care to patients with COVID-19. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. RESULTS The participants included four men and 10 women. Data analysis revealed four main themes (14 subthemes) related to the experience of the participants in providing care to patients with COVID-19. These themes included (a) fear (fear of being infected, fear of being a carrier, fear of the disease, and high mortality of patients), (b) compulsion (compulsion to care, being under pressure), (c) distinct experience (need for self-care, working with personal protective equipment, and ambiguity in care/treatment), and (d) sacrifice (altruism, compassion, self-sacrifice, and being proud of yourself). CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE The experience of participants in caring for patients with COVID-19, in addition to the unique experience of care, was associated with fear, compulsion, and sacrifice. Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the unique experience of nurses serving in COVID-19 units, it is necessary to educate and support nurses to deal effectively with this situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roonak SHAHOEI
- PhD, Associate Professor, Clinical Care Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Syede Mona NEMATI
- MSN, RN, Instructor, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Sina VALIEE
- PhD, RN, Professor, Clinical Care Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
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McFadden S, Guille S, Daly-Lynn J, O’Neill B, Marley J, Hanratty C, Shepherd P, Ramsey L, Breen C, Duffy O, Jones A, Kerr D, Hughes C. Academic, clinical and personal experiences of undergraduate healthcare students during the COVID-19 pandemic: A prospective cohort study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0271873. [PMID: 35895730 PMCID: PMC9328508 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0271873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 has impacted upon the role and safety of healthcare workers, with the potential to have a lasting effect on their wellbeing. Limited research has been conducted during previous pandemics exploring how student healthcare workers are impacted as they study and train for their professional careers.
Objective
The aim of the current study was to examine the specific impact of COVID-19 on the academic, clinical and personal experiences of healthcare students.
Method
Undergraduate students across three year groups within the School of Health Sciences at Ulster University completed online Qualtrics surveys at three timepoints during one academic year (2020/2021). Quantitative survey data was downloaded from Qualtrics into SPSS Version 25 for descriptive analysis of each cross-sectional sample. Qualitative survey data was downloaded into text format, which was thematically analysed using content analysis.
Results
412 students completed the survey at Time 1 (October 2020), n = 309 at Time 2 (December 2020) and n = 259 at Time 3 (April 2021). Academically, the pandemic had mostly a negative impact on the learning environment, the development of practical skills, the assessment process and opportunities for peer learning and support. Students reported increased stress and challenges managing their workload and maintaining a sense of motivation and routine. Clinically, they felt unprepared by the university for placement where the pandemic had an increasingly negative impact over time on learning and skill development. In terms of personal experiences, despite the majority of students taking steps to keep physically and mentally well, negative impacts on friendships, mental wellbeing and concerns for family were reported. The pandemic had not impacted upon career choice for most students.
Conclusion
Consideration must be given to the development of practical skills so students feel prepared for their professional careers given the practical nature of their roles. Programme coordinators should adopt a holistic approach to student wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonyia McFadden
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
- * E-mail:
| | - Sharon Guille
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Jean Daly-Lynn
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Brenda O’Neill
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Joanne Marley
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Catherine Hanratty
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Paul Shepherd
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Lucia Ramsey
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Cathal Breen
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Orla Duffy
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Andrea Jones
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Daniel Kerr
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
| | - Ciara Hughes
- School of Health Sciences, Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University Jordanstown Campus, County Antrim, Northern Ireland
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Wang H, Luo P, Wu Y, Zeng X. Factors and optimizations of healthcare workers' perception in alternative care facilities. Front Public Health 2022; 10:891503. [PMID: 35968426 PMCID: PMC9364931 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.891503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Diverse measures have been carried out worldwide to establish Alternative Care Facilities (ACFs) for different ends, such as receiving, curing or isolating patients, aiming to cope with tremendous shock in the urban medical system during the early passage of the COVID-19 epidemic. Healthcare workers always felt anxious and stressed during multiple major public health emergencies in medical facilities. Some active measures to improve healthcare workers' perceptions, such as temporary training, workflow improvement, and supplementary facilities, were proved insufficient in several past public health emergencies. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the contributing factors of the healthcare workers' perceptions of the ACFs in this pandemic, which can help find an innovative path to ensure their health, well-being and work efficiency. Method This paper conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews with the world's first batch of healthcare workers who have worked in ACFs through a qualitative study based on Grounded Theory. The healthcare workers interviewed from Heilongjiang, Shandong, Fujian, and Hubei provinces, have worked in one of the four different ACFs built in Wuhan. The results are obtained through the three-level codes and analyses of the interview recordings. Results The factors affecting the perception of healthcare workers in ACFs during the epidemic situation can be summarized into five major categories: individual characteristics, organization management, facilities and equipment, space design, and internal environment. The five major categories affecting the composition of perception can be further divided into endogenous and exogenous factors, which jointly affect the perception of healthcare workers in ACFs. Among them, individual characteristics belong to endogenous factors, which are the primary conditions, while other categories belong to exogenous factors, which are the decisive conditions. Conclusion This paper clarifies factors affecting the perception of healthcare workers in ACFs and analyzes the mechanism of each factor. It is posited that the passive strategies are a promising solution to protect healthcare workers' health, improve their work efficiency, and help reduce the operation stress of ACFs. We should train multidisciplinary professionals for future healthcare and enhance collaborations between healthcare workers and engineers. To sum up, this paper broadens new horizons for future research on the optimization of ACFs and finds new paths for alleviating healthcare workers' adverse perceptions of ACFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Region Urban and Rural Human Settlement Environment Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Peng Luo
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Region Urban and Rural Human Settlement Environment Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
| | - Yimeng Wu
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianqi Zeng
- School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
- Key Laboratory of Cold Region Urban and Rural Human Settlement Environment Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China
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Irandoost SF, Yoosefi Lebni J, Safari H, Khorami F, Ahmadi S, Soofizad G, Ebadi Fard Azar F. Explaining the challenges and adaptation strategies of nurses in caring for patients with COVID-19: a qualitative study in Iran. BMC Nurs 2022; 21:170. [PMID: 35765051 PMCID: PMC9238071 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-022-00937-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nurses, as the primary human resource in the fight against COVID-19, encounter several obstacles and concerns. As a result, the current study used a qualitative method to describe the problems and adaptation techniques of nurses caring for COVID-19 patients. Methods The current study used a qualitative conventional content analysis technique with 30 nurses working in COVID-19 wards in Tehran hospitals. Purposive sampling, snowball sampling, and semi-structured interviews were used to get access to participants and gather data. The data was examined using conventional qualitative content analysis and the MAXQDA-18 program. To assess the quality of study findings, Guba and Lincoln’s trustworthiness criteria were fulfilled. Results The data analysis revealed two main categories and sixteen subcategories: (1) experiences and challenges (lack of protective equipment, high work pressure, marginalized physical health, problems related to the use of protective equipment, being excluded, a lack of a supportive work environment, problems related to patients, psychological problems, fear, marginalized personal and family life, and the challenge of communicating with patients’ families); and (2) adaptation strategies for work conditions (performing religious-spiritual activities, creating an empathetic atmosphere in the workplace, spiritualizing their work, trying to convince the family and gaining their support, and strengthening their sense of self-worth and responsibility). Conclusion Nurses’ working conditions can be improved by providing adequate protective equipment, a suitable work environment, and more social and financial support; paying more attention to nurses’ physical and mental health; and considering appropriate communication mechanisms for nurses to communicate with their families and patients’ families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Fahim Irandoost
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Javad Yoosefi Lebni
- Health Education and Promotion, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.
| | - Hossein Safari
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Farhad Khorami
- Clinical Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Kermanshah Branch, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Sina Ahmadi
- Department of Social Welfare Management, Social Welfare Management Research Centre, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Goli Soofizad
- School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sutantri S, Putri AF, Ismiyati R. "Getting caught unprepared": A phenomenological study of Indonesian nurses dealing with difficulties when caring for patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Nurs Health Sci 2022; 24:469-478. [PMID: 35430775 PMCID: PMC9115483 DOI: 10.1111/nhs.12944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has brought pressure and challenges to nurses worldwide. This study aims to understand the lived experiences of nurses in overcoming challenges when delivering care for patients with COVID‐19 in Indonesia. The study employed a phenomenological research design. The researchers purposely selected nine nurses who provided care for patients with COVID‐19 at an urban public hospital in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, between September and December 2020. The researchers conducted face‐to‐face interviews with participants. The interview data transcriptions were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis. The experiences of nurses in providing care for patients with COVID‐19 can be summarized into three themes: (1) getting caught unprepared, (2) understanding and adapting to a new working situation, and (3) finding new meaning in the nursing profession. This study suggested that nurses overcame difficulties in caring for patients with COVID‐19 by using multidimensional and culturally informed coping strategies. Hospital managers and policymakers need to consider culturally relevant coping strategies (i.e., religious‐based coping strategies) when supporting healthcare providers during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sutantri Sutantri
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | | | - Rini Ismiyati
- Health Promotion Unit, DR. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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Hill JE, Harris C, Danielle L. C, Boland P, Doherty A, Benedetto V, Gita BE, Clegg AJ. The prevalence of mental health conditions in healthcare workers during and after a pandemic: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Adv Nurs 2022; 78:1551-1573. [PMID: 35150151 PMCID: PMC9111784 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
AIMS This review aims to explore the prevalence and incidence rates of mental health conditions in healthcare workers during and after a pandemic outbreak and which factors influence rates. BACKGROUND Pandemics place considerable burden on care services, impacting on workers' health and their ability to deliver services. We systematically reviewed the prevalence and incidence of mental health conditions in care workers during pandemics. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. DATA SOURCES Searches of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library and PsychINFO for cohort, cross-sectional and case-control studies were undertaken on the 31 March 2020 (from inception to 31 March 2020). REVIEW METHODS Only prevalence or incidence rates for mental health conditions from validated tools were included. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were carried out by two reviewers. Meta-analyses and subgroup analyses were produced for pandemic period (pre- and post), age, country income, country, clinical setting for major depression disorder (MDD), anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). RESULTS No studies of incidence were found. Prevalence estimates showed that the most common mental health condition was PTSD (21.7%) followed by anxiety disorder (16.1%), MDD (13.4%) and acute stress disorder (7.4%) (low risk of bias). For symptoms of these conditions there was substantial variation in the prevalence estimates for depression (95% confidence interval [CI]:31.8%; 60.5%), anxiety (95% CI:34.2%; 57.7%) and PTSD symptoms (95% CI,21.4%; 65.4%) (moderate risk of bias). Age, level of exposure and type of care professional were identified as important moderating factors. CONCLUSION Mental disorders affect healthcare workers during and after infectious disease pandemics, with higher proportions experiencing symptoms. IMPACT This review provides prevalence estimates of mental health conditions during and after a pandemic which could be used to inform service staffing impact and formulation of preventative strategies, by identifying clinical populations who may be at high risk of developing mental health symptoms and conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Edward Hill
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Catherine Harris
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Christian Danielle L.
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Paul Boland
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Alison J. Doherty
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Valerio Benedetto
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
| | - Bhutani E. Gita
- Lancashire Care & South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust & University of LiverpoolPrestonUK
| | - Andrew J. Clegg
- Synthesis, Economic Evaluation and Decision Science (SEEDS) GroupUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonLancashireUK
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Ali H, Fatemi Y, Ali D, Hamasha M, Hamasha S. Investigating Frontline Nurse Stress: Perceptions of Job Demands, Organizational Support, and Social Support During the Current COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Public Health 2022; 10:839600. [PMID: 35719643 PMCID: PMC9204268 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.839600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundWhile frontline nurses employ coping alternatives to help deal with occupational stress resulting from unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, their access to necessary resources is unclear.ObjectiveThis study aims to explore nurses' mental health in Alabama hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak and investigate the impact of organizational and community support on nurse stressor levels, physio-psychosocial responses, and coping strategies employed.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was developed to bridge our understanding of stress, support, and coping mechanisms and distributed to nurses working with COVID-19-infected patients in hospital settings in Alabama. A total of 232 frontline nurses responded to 79 items in four domains (stressors, physio-psychosocial symptoms, coping, and support) between May 6, 2020, and June 30, 2020. A two-way ANOVA, regression analysis, and mediation of effects were used to analyze the data.ResultsThis study found that both social support and use of coping strategies contributed to the reduction of physio-psychosocial symptoms. Differences were found in how older frontline nurses perceived the efficacy of social support and certain coping strategies. This study provides further evidence of the importance of organizational support in addressing the harmful physio-psychosocial symptoms experienced by nurses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Ali
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Health Services Administration Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
- *Correspondence: Haneen Ali
| | - Yasin Fatemi
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Duha Ali
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Mohammad Hamasha
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Sa'd Hamasha
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Health Services Administration Program, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
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Burns SP, Fleming TK, Webb SS, Kam ASH, Fielder JDP, Kim GJ, Hu X, Hill MT, Kringle EA. Stroke Recovery During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Position Paper on Recommendations for Rehabilitation. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2022; 103:1874-1882. [PMID: 35533736 PMCID: PMC9072806 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Health care delivery shifted and adapted with the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Stroke care was negatively affected across the care continuum and may lead to poor community living outcomes in those who survived a stroke during the ongoing pandemic. For instance, delays in seeking care, changes in length of stays, and shifts in discharge patterns were observed during the pandemic. Those seeking care were younger and had more severe neurologic effects from stroke. Increased strain was placed on caregivers and public health efforts, and community-wide lockdowns, albeit necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, had detrimental effects on treatment and recommendations to support community living outcomes. The American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine Stroke Interdisciplinary Special Interest Group Health and Wellness Task Force convened to (1) discuss international experiences in stroke care and rehabilitation and (2) review recently published literature on stroke care and outcomes during the pandemic. Based on the findings in the literature, the task force proposes recommendations and interdisciplinary approaches at the (1) institutional and societal level; (2) health care delivery level; and (3) individual and interpersonal level spanning across the care continuum and into the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Perea Burns
- Division of Occupational Therapy, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico.
| | - Talya K Fleming
- JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute at Hackensack Meridian Health, Edison, New Jersey
| | - Sam S Webb
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Alice Sau Han Kam
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute - University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Grace J Kim
- Department of Occupational Therapy, New York University, New York City, New York; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York
| | - Xiaolei Hu
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Mary Thelander Hill
- Division of Occupational Therapy, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Emily A Kringle
- Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
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Obeidat NA, Dodin YI, Hawari FI, Albtoosh AS, Manasrah RM, Mansour AH. Mitigating psychological distress in healthcare workers as COVID-19 waves ensue: a repeated cross-sectional study from Jordan. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2022; 20:32. [PMID: 35410266 PMCID: PMC8995692 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-022-00728-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Jordan has experienced several COVID-19 waves in the past 2 years. Cross-sectional studies have been conducted to evaluate distress in healthcare practitioners (HCPs), but there is limited evidence with regards to the impact of continuing pandemic waves on levels of distress in HCPs. We previously studied psychological distress in HCPs during the start of the pandemic (period 1, when cases were infrequent and the country was in lockdown), and demonstrated that HCPs were experiencing considerable stress, despite the country reporting low caseloads at the time. In this study, we sought to utilize the same methodology to reexamine levels of distress as COVID-19 peaked in the country and HCPs began managing large numbers of COVID-19 cases (period 2). METHODS A cross-sectional online survey utilizing a tool previously used during period 1 was completed by HCPs working in various settings. Demographic, professional and psychological factors such as distress, anxiety, depression, burnout, sleep issues, exhaustion, and fear were assessed; and coping strategies also were measured. Items in the tool were assessed for reliability and validity. A multivariable regression was used to identify factors that continued to impact distress during period 2. RESULTS Samples in both periods (n = 937, n = 876, respectively) were relatively comparable in demographic characteristics, but in period 2, a greater proportion of nurses and healthcare practitioners reported working in general hospitals. During the pandemic peak (period 2), 49.0% of HCPs reported high levels of distress (compared to 32% in period 1); anxiety and depression scores were approximately 21% higher in period 2; and 50.6% reported fatigue (compared to 34.3% in period 1). Variables significantly associated with greater distress in period 2 included experiencing burnout, experiencing sleep disturbances, being fatigued, having fatalistic fears, and having fears related to workload. Conversely, being male, reporting satisfaction at work, and using positive coping practices were associated with a significantly lower odds of being in distress. CONCLUSIONS Between the two periods (early pandemic and first wave), COVID-19-related mental health continued to deteriorate among HCPs, highlighting the need to do more to support HCP front-liners facing COVID-19 surges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nour A. Obeidat
- Cancer Control Office, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, 11941 Jordan
| | - Yasmeen I. Dodin
- Cancer Control Office, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, 11941 Jordan
| | | | - Asma S. Albtoosh
- Respiratory Division, Internal Medicine Department, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Rasha M. Manasrah
- Cancer Control Office, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, 11941 Jordan
| | - Asem H. Mansour
- Director General Office, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan
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Contact-Free Operation of Epidemic Prevention Elevator for Buildings. BUILDINGS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/buildings12040411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic broke out in early 2020, and the infection rate of COVID-19 variants is considerably higher than that of the original virus. The pandemic is still spreading globally. In June 2021, two families living on different floors of a building in Fongshan, Kaohsiung, were simultaneously infected with COVID-19. Investigation results suggested that an elevator in buildings was the most likely place where the virus transmission occurred. Building elevators are a necessary vertical transportation facility for residents or workers in high-rise buildings, and people touch elevator buttons while operating elevators. When a passenger carrying the virus touches elevator buttons, subsequent passengers may be easily infected if they touch those buttons and then touch their mouth, eyes, or nose by accident before sanitizing or washing their hands. In this study, we developed a contact-free elevator ride system by applying smart speech recognition, contact-free perceptual buttons, gesture recognition sensors, and a web page browser activated by quick response codes to operate an elevator. This system reduces the risk of virus infection caused by contact during an elevator ride, effectively enhancing pandemic prevention and protecting people’s health.
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Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of professionals in 77 hospitals in France. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263666. [PMID: 35171915 PMCID: PMC8849482 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant re-organisation of healthcare delivery in hospitals, with repercussions on all professionals working in healthcare. We aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of professionals working in health care institutions and to identify individual and environmental factors influencing the risk of mental health disorders. From 4 June to 22 September 2020, a total of 4370 professionals responded to an online questionnaire evaluating psychological distress, severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms, stress factors, and coping strategies. About 57% of the professionals suffered from psychological distress, and 21% showed symptoms of potential post-traumatic stress. Professionals working in radiology, those working in quality/hygiene/security and nurses' aides were the most affected groups. The media focus on the crisis, and a high workload were the most prevalent stress factors, followed by uncertainty regarding the possibility of containing the epidemic, the constantly changing hygiene recommendations/protocols, and the lack of personal protective equipment. The use of coping strategies, notably positive thinking, helped to mitigate the relation between perceived stress and mental health disorders. The COVID-19 pandemic has had far-reaching negative repercussions for all professionals, with some sectors more markedly affected. To prevent mental health disorders in professionals during a public health crisis, support services and management strategies within hospitals should take account of the importance of positive thinking and social support.
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Branjerdporn G, Bowman C, Kenworthy S, Stapelberg NJC. Interventional Response of Hospital and Health Services to the Mental Health Effects of Viral Outbreaks on Health Professionals. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:812365. [PMID: 35273530 PMCID: PMC8902291 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.812365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this integrative review was to examine the impact of past viral epidemics on staff mental health interventional responses, with a specific focus on healthcare provider response in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Following PRISMA methodology, databases were searched for relevant articles. A total of 55 articles with a range of methodologies (e.g., commentary papers, cohort studies, qualitative studies) were included to ensure broad coverage of this rapidly emerging research area. The literature showed that many healthcare providers implemented a variety of wellbeing initiatives to support their staff during a viral outbreak. Most of these interventions, however, were not formally evaluated. Interventions included leadership/team support; online psychoeducational resources and updated information on the pandemic; respite spaces; peer support outreach; staff resilience training; telephone hotline support; staff support groups; and individual counseling. Staff were generally supportive of the initiatives offered by hospital and health services, with certain interventions being more appreciated (e.g., staff respite areas). Rapid, locally, and culturally appropriate workplace-based responses may counter the negative mental health impact on staff; but a stepped response is required for a smaller number of staff at risk of mental illness, or those with pre-existing mental illness. Systematic Review Registration: Unique Identifier: CRD42020222761.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Candice Bowman
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - Sean Kenworthy
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD, Australia
| | - Nicolas J. C. Stapelberg
- Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, QLD, Australia
- Faculty of Health Science and Medicine, Bond University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
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Peter E, Variath C, Mohammed S, Mitchell M, Killackey T, Maciver J, Chiasson C. Nurses' Experiences of their Ethical Responsibilities during Coronavirus Outbreaks: A Scoping Review. Can J Nurs Res 2022; 54:246-260. [PMID: 35167396 PMCID: PMC9379388 DOI: 10.1177/08445621221080153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, nurses have experienced changes to the moral conditions of their work
during coronavirus outbreaks. To identify the challenges and sources of support
in nurses’ efforts to meet their ethical responsibilities during SARS, MERS, and
COVID-19 outbreaks a scoping review design was chosen. A search was conducted
for eligible studies in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase and Embase Classic, EBSCO
CINAHL Plus, OVID APA PsycInfo, ProQuest ASSIA, and ProQuest Sociological
Abstracts on August 19, 2020 and November 9, 2020. The PRISMA-ScR checklist was
used to ensure rigor. A total of 5204 records were identified of which 41
studies were included. Three themes were identified related challenges in
meeting ethical responsibilities: 1) substandard care, 2) impeded relationships,
3) organizational and system responses and six themes relating to sources of
support: 1) team and supervisor relationships, 2) organizational change leading
to improved patient care, 3) speaking out, 4) finding meaning, 5) responses by
patients and the public, 6) self-care strategies.Our review revealed how
substandard care and public health measures resulted in nurses not being fully
able to meet their ethical responsibilities of care. These included the
visitation policies that impeded the support of patients by nurses and families,
particularly with respect to face-to-face relationships. Organizational and
system responses to the evolving outbreaks, such as inadequate staffing, also
contributed to these challenges. Supportive relationships with colleagues and
supervisors, however, were very beneficial, along with positive responses from
patients and the public
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Peter
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, Joint Centre for Bioethics, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Variath
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellness, 10025Humber College, Toronto, Canada
| | - Shan Mohammed
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Mikaela Mitchell
- Gerstein Science Information Centre, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tieghan Killackey
- Gerstein Science Information Centre, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jane Maciver
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Conor Chiasson
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, 7938University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Sundararajan K, Bi P, Milazzo A, Poole A, Reddi B, Mahmood MA. Preparedness and response to COVID-19 in a quaternary intensive care unit in Australia: perspectives and insights from frontline critical care clinicians. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e051982. [PMID: 35121600 PMCID: PMC8819546 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to explore the perspectives and opinions of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses and doctors at a COVID-19-designated pandemic hospital concerning the preparedness and response to COVID-19 and to consolidate the lessons learnt for crisis/disaster management in the future. DESIGN A qualitative study using in-depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). Purposeful sampling was conducted to identify participants. A semistructured guide was used to facilitate IDIs with individual participants. Two FGDs were conducted, one with the ICU doctors and another with the ICU nurses. Thematic analysis identified themes and subthemes informing about the level of preparedness, response measures, processes, and factors that were either facilitators or those that triggered challenges. SETTING ICU in a quaternary referral centre affiliated to a university teaching COVID-19-designated pandemic hospital, in Adelaide, South Australia. PARTICIPANTS The participants included eight ICU doctors and eight ICU nurses for the IDIs. Another 16 clinicians participated in FGDs. RESULTS The study identified six themes relevant to preparedness for, and responses to, COVID-19. The themes included: (1) staff competence and planning, (2) information transfer and communication, (3) education and skills for the safe use of personal protective equipment, (4) team dynamics and clinical practice, (5) leadership, and (6) managing end-of-life situations and expectations of caregivers. CONCLUSION Findings highlight that preparedness and response to the COVID-19 crisis were proportionate to the situation's gravity. More enablers than barriers were identified. However, opportunities for improvement were recognised in the domains of planning, logistics, self-sufficiency with equipment, operational and strategic oversight, communication and managing end-of-life care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnaswamy Sundararajan
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peng Bi
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Adriana Milazzo
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Alexis Poole
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Benjamin Reddi
- Intensive Care Unit, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Discipline of Acute Care Medicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mohammad Afzal Mahmood
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Xu L, You D, Li C, Zhang X, Yang R, Kang C, Wang N, Jin Y, Yuan J, Li C, Wei Y, Li Y, Yang J. Two-stage mental health survey of first-line medical staff after ending COVID-19 epidemic assistance and isolation. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2022; 272:81-93. [PMID: 34008059 PMCID: PMC8130787 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-021-01239-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Facing with COVID-19 epidemic such a catastrophic health emergency, the mental health status of medical staff deserves attention. We conducted a two-stage of psychological status monitoring after the end of the assistance and 14 days of isolation, further targeted the vulnerable groups in need of intervention. The study is a cross-sectional survey on 1156 Yunnan medical staff aid to Hubei. Used Cluster sampling method to collect data at 2 time points (at the end of returning from Wuhan and the 14th day of isolation), from March 18, 2020 to April 6, 2020. Female and nurse had higher rates of depressive symptoms than male and doctors and other occupations. The proportion of female with mild and above moderate anxiety levels (22.91%, 2.61%) was higher than male (17.35%, 1.03%) (p < 0.05). Female had a better impaired sleep quality (45.06%, 17.49%) more than male (28.57%, 7.94%). Medical staff supported in Wuhan and with junior professional titles reported a higher proportion of sleep quality impairment. At the 14th isolation day stage, the proportion of nurses changed from depression to health (9.15%) and from health to depression (6.1%) better than doctors. The front-line medical staffs had suffered greater psychological pressure in the treatment process of major public health emergency. Researches on the dynamic monitor for the change of psychological status after aiding epidemic areas were still in relatively blank stage. Targeting the vulnerable characteristics of aiding medical staff is significant for effective psychological intervention and sustainable operation of health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Xu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Dingyun You
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Chengyu Li
- School of Public Health, Kunming Medical University, Kunming Yunnan, 650500, China
| | - Xiyu Zhang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, 157 BaoJian Road, Harbin, 150000, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Runxu Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Chuanyuan Kang
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Nianshi Wang
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, 157 BaoJian Road, Harbin, 150000, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yuxiong Jin
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Yujun Wei
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China
| | - Ye Li
- School of Health Management, Harbin Medical University, 157 BaoJian Road, Harbin, 150000, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Jianzhong Yang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, 374 DianMian Road, Kunming Yunnan, 650101, China.
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Frenkel MO, Pollak KM, Schilling O, Voigt L, Fritzsching B, Wrzus C, Egger-Lampl S, Merle U, Weigand MA, Mohr S. Stressors faced by healthcare professionals and coping strategies during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0261502. [PMID: 35041679 PMCID: PMC8765664 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has exerted great pressure on national health systems, which have aimed to ensure comprehensive healthcare at all times. Healthcare professionals working with COVID-19 patients are on the frontline and thereby confronted with enormous demands. Although early reports exist on the psychological impact of the pandemic on frontline medical staff working in Asia, little is known about its impact on healthcare professionals in other countries and across various work sectors. The present cross-sectional, online survey sought to investigate common work stressors among healthcare professionals, their psychological stress as well as coping resources during the pandemic. METHODS A sample of 575 healthcare professionals (57% male) in three different sectors (hospital, prehospital emergency care, and outpatient service) reported their experiences concerning work and private stressors, psychological stress, and coping strategies between April 17, 2020 and June 5, 2020. To capture pandemic-specific answers, most of the items were adapted or newly developed. Exploratory factor analyses (EFA) were conducted to detect underlying latent factors relating to COVID-specific work stressors. In a next step, the effects of these latent stressors across various work sectors on psychological stress (perceived stress, fatigue, and mood) were examined by means of structural equation models (SEM). To add lived experience to the findings, responses to open-ended questions about healthcare professionals' stressors, effective crisis measures and prevention, and individual coping strategies were coded inductively, and emergent themes were identified. RESULTS The EFA revealed that the examined work stressors can be grouped into four latent factors: "fear of transmission", "interference of workload with private life", "uncertainty/lack of knowledge", and "concerns about the team". The SEM results showed that "interference of workload with private life" represented the pivotal predictor of psychological stress. "Concerns about the team" had stress-reducing effects. The latent stressors had an equal effect on psychological stress across work sectors. On average, psychological stress levels were moderate, yet differed significantly between sectors (all p < .001); the outpatient group experienced reduced calmness and more stress than the other two sectors, while the prehospital group reported lower fatigue than the other two sectors. The prehospital group reported significantly higher concerns about the team than the hospital group (p < .001). In their reports, healthcare professionals highlighted regulations such as social distancing and the use of compulsory masks, training, experience and knowledge exchange, and social support as effective coping strategies during the pandemic. The hospital group mainly mentioned organizational measures such as visiting bans as effective crisis measures, whereas the prehospital sector most frequently named governmental measures such as contact restrictions. CONCLUSION The study demonstrated the need for sector-specific crisis measures to effectively address the specific work stressors faced by the outpatient sector in particular. The results on pandemic-specific work stressors reveal that healthcare professionals might benefit from coping strategies that facilitate the utilization of social support. At the workplace, team commitment and knowledge exchange might buffer against adverse psychological stress responses. Schedules during pandemics should give healthcare workers the opportunity to interact with families and friends in ways that facilitate social support outside work. Future studies should investigate cross-sector stressors using a longitudinal design to identify both sector- and time-specific measures. Ultimately, an international comparison of stressors and measures in different sectors of healthcare systems is desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Oliver Schilling
- Psychological Institute, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Voigt
- Institute of Psychology, German Sport University Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Benedikt Fritzsching
- Corona specialized physician practice, Heidelberg, Germany
- Head of outpatient service for pediatric patients with fever, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Cornelia Wrzus
- Psychological Institute, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Egger-Lampl
- Center for Technology Experience, Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) GmbH, Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Uta Merle
- Department for Gastroenterology, Infectious diseases and Intoxication, University Hospital Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Stefan Mohr
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Rose S, Hartnett J, Pillai S. A comprehensive dataset describing nurse's emotions, perceived stressors and coping mechanisms during the first surge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data Brief 2022; 40:107814. [PMID: 35018296 PMCID: PMC8739366 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2022.107814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive and validated questionnaire modified from previous epidemics [1,2] was distributed to frontline HCWs at high risk for COVID-19 at our community-based teaching hospital, the epicenter of the pandemic in our state. Results of the full analysis were previously reported [3] indicating that our nursing staff were more likely to report feelings of stress, emotional exhaustion and fatigue compared to physicians and other health professionals. We highlight the pandemic's specific impact on nurses’ emotions, perceived stressors and effective coping mechanisms used during the first surge of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Rose
- Office of Research, Stamford Hospital, Stamford, CT, USA
| | | | - Seema Pillai
- Department of Nursing, Stamford Hospital, Stamford, CT, USA
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Kamisli S, Terzioglu C. Frontline nurses caring for COVID-19 patients: Experiences from the perspective of Turkish nurses. Niger J Clin Pract 2022; 25:1014-1020. [DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_1345_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Al-Ghabeesh SH, Al-Awayssa RM, Rayan AH, Assaf EA. Perceived Occupational Stressors and the General Health of Critical Care Nurses During COVID-19 Pandemic. SAGE Open Nurs 2022; 8:23779608221134770. [PMID: 36387047 PMCID: PMC9643755 DOI: 10.1177/23779608221134770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 situation is placing nurses under great stress which may negatively influence their health. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to examine the association between occupational stress and general health of critical care nurses during COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. A convenience sample of 150 Jordanian critical care nurses completed the study. RESULTS Occupational stress was a significant predictor of nurses' general health. Female gender, young, living with elderly or persons having chronic diseases, and little nursing experience were associated with worse general health, while living with elderly or persons having chronic diseases were associated with more occupational stress. CONCLUSION Providing psychological support services for critical care nurses is required to reduce the impact of occupational stress on nurses' poor general health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Enas A Assaf
- Collage of Nursing, Applied Science Private University, Amman,
Jordan
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Shahrajabian MH. Powerful Stress Relieving Medicinal Plants for Anger, Anxiety, Depression, and Stress During Global Pandemic. Recent Pat Biotechnol 2022; 16:284-310. [PMID: 35319401 DOI: 10.2174/1872208316666220321102216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Consideration and improvement for anxiety and depression are important during a global pandemic. Appropriate healthcare can be obtained by paying more attention to traditional medicinal sciences. The adverse effects of stress with various symptoms can be managed by introducing plants that boost mental health. The most relevant psychological reactions in the general population related to the global pandemic are pervasive anxiety, frustration and boredom, specific and uncontrolled fear, disabling loneliness, significant lifestyle changes, and psychiatric conditions. Ginseng, chamomile, passionflower, herbal tea, lavender, saffron, kava, rose, cardamom, Chinese date, and some chief formula like yokukansan, Dan-zhi-xiao-yao-san, so-ochim-tang-gamiband, and saikokaryukotsuboreito are notable herbal treatments for mental health problems. The most common medicinal plants that have been used in Iran for the cure of stress and anxiety are Viper's-buglosses, Dracocephalum, valerian, chamomile, common hop, hawthorns, and lavender. Medicinal plants and herbs can be used for the treatment and alleviation of the negative effects of stress, anger, and depression during the global pandemic.
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Dellafiore F, Arrigoni C, Nania T, Caruso R, Baroni I, Vangone I, Russo S, Barello S. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on family caregivers' mental health: a rapid systematic review of the current evidence. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2022; 93:e2022154. [PMID: 35545977 PMCID: PMC9534216 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v93is2.12979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK Older adults, especially in isolation and with cognitive decline/dementia, can become more anxious and stressed during the quarantine. All these symptoms negatively affect the psycho-physical health of their caregivers. This study aimed to synthesize the current evidence on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on caregivers' mental health. METHODS A rapid systematic review was conducted using the following databases: Pubmed/Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and PsycInfo (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020215485). The 'PRISMA' flow chart guided the selection of articles. The search was entirely performed up to September 15th, 2021. RESULTS The narrative synthesis has brought out two main themes that represent the current debate in literature: "Family caregivers COVID-19 related stress", and "(Mal)adaptive strategies to the "new" normality". CONCLUSIONS This study provides an evidence synthesis of the negative mental health impact experienced by caregivers of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Dellafiore
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Section of Hygiene, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cristina Arrigoni
- Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, Section of Hygiene, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Nania
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato (MI), Department of Psychology, EngageMinds HUB – Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Rosario Caruso
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato (MI)
| | - Irene Baroni
- Health Professions Research and Development Unit, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato (MI)
| | - Ida Vangone
- Department of Oncology and Hematology-Oncology, IEO IEO-European Institute of Oncology, Milan, Italy
| | - Sara Russo
- Nursing degree course, University of Pavia, section Istituti Clinici di Pavia e Vigevano S.p.A., Pavia, Italy
| | - Serena Barello
- Department of Psychology, EngageMinds HUB – Consumer, Food & Health Engagement Research Center, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
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Simeone S, Rea T, Guillari A, Vellone E, Alvaro R, Pucciarelli G. Nurses and Stigma at the Time of COVID-19: A Phenomenological Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 10:healthcare10010025. [PMID: 35052188 PMCID: PMC8775437 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is putting strain on every country in the world and their health systems. Healthcare professionals struggle on the frontline and they can experience stigma, which can create difficulties in controlling epidemic diseases, influencing the mental health of healthcare professionals, caregivers, families, communities, and the provided quality of care. The aim of this study is to explore the lived experience of Italian nurses about perceived stigma during COVID-19 pandemic with the phenomenological Cohen method. The principal themes that emerged from data analysis were “stigma in the working environment” and “stigma in everyday life”. Each of these themes had subthemes: “looks like gun sights”, “avoiding closeness to others”, “nobody wants to touch you”, and “the fault of being your family members”. Public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, are stressful events for individuals and communities. Stigma can be more dangerous than the disease, and a major obstacle to appropriate medical and mental health interventions. Understanding how healthcare professionals experience stigma is essential to design and implement specific educational, psychological, and organisational programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvio Simeone
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Teresa Rea
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Assunta Guillari
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Ercole Vellone
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (E.V.); (R.A.); (G.P.)
| | - Rosaria Alvaro
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (E.V.); (R.A.); (G.P.)
| | - Gianluca Pucciarelli
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, 00133 Rome, Italy; (E.V.); (R.A.); (G.P.)
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Dias Tavares da Silva SM, Fernandes CS, Magalhães BM, Edra B. Adaptability, cohesion and family functionality of nurses during state of emergency by COVID-19. AVANCES EN ENFERMERÍA 2021. [DOI: 10.15446/av.enferm.v39n1supl.98633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate nurses’ family adaptability, cohesion, and functionality during the state of emergency.
Materials and method: The following is an exploratory, quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. We used a snowball sample, non-probabilistic, and for convenience. For data collection, we used an instrument consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire; a family, housing, and cohabitation characterization questionnaire; a Duvall’s Family Life Cycle Assessment Scale; a Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES II); and Family-Scale Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve (APGAR) that measures family function.
Results: 125 responses were obtained, being identified the following aspects as predictors of better APGAR, Cohesion, and Adaptability: better housing conditions; families with three or more members; mature families, with children or adult children; individuals teleworking and households in which no more than one member is socially isolated. Age is a predictor of lower adaptability and cohesion.
Conclusions: Twenty percent of families (APGAR) have moderate or severe dysfunction; 4.8 % are classified as “extreme” families, and 39.2 % as “very balanced” (FACES II), therefore being at risk.
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