COVID-19, Don’t let the defense fail …
COVID-19 outbreak is a stressful time for healthcare systems across the world. Being at the forefront of battle against this pandemic, healthcare workers especially nurses are putting their lives at stake. For every nation regardless of their geopolitical and socioeconomic status in the world, are dealing with this invisible enemy. Countries who overestimated their ability to deal with the pandemic are currently paying the price. Overwhelming rate of morbidity and mortality associated with SARSCoV-2 is not only affecting the psyche of public, but also the nurses who are the frontline warriors. It is imperative to address physical and emotional wellbeing of nurses at this instance, especially to prevent burnout and promote resilience. Efforts to mitigate struggles ranging from obtaining appropriate personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to psychological and emotional trauma associated with caregiver fatigue are important to keep the warriors battlestrong for the upcoming waves for Covid-19 pandemic.
Compassion fatigue and related issues are as important of an issue as prevention of infection by SARS-CoV-2 virus. Since regulators and administrators are heavily focused on infection prevention strategies due to the high rate of spread of the virus and media attention, little focus has been given to keep the nurses emotionally resilient in this existential battle. As we are experiencing an unprecedented event, every one of us should take charge of this psychological support system for ourselves and our fellow beings. Concerns of transmission of illness to family and friends, societal stigma of health care workers associated with pandemic fear etc. are some of the extraneous stressors for healthcare workers. Understanding the origin of these perceptive elements will facilitate nurses to better cope with the stressors. It is important for nurses to recognize and acknowledge one’s own emotions and stressors to become emotionally resilient. Nurturing optimism and shifting focus of attention are some of the effective methods to navigate this tough time. Journaling is another powerful tool that deescalate inner conflicts. Building and maintaining social connections is one the most effective way to promote positivity and emotional health.
