Effects of COVID-19 on Healthcare Providers: Opportunities for Education and Support (ECHOES).

ABSTRACT

Healthcare providers (HCPs) working at point of care with patients have experienced health-, home- and work-related stressors from the COVID-19 pandemic. The magnitude and duration of the pandemic pose particular challenges for nursing leadership, and there is little research to guide them during this unprecedented time. This study was designed to explore how the pandemic influences HCP well-being, professional practice, inter-professional collaboration and the education and supports that would assist them during the pandemic recovery period. The article reports on the qualitative portion of a mixed-methods study, which included 56 HCPs who work in a large mental healthcare facility in Ontario. Witnessing the impact of the pandemic restrictions on patients was a significant source of stress for HCPs. HCPs recommended strategies, such as learning new therapeutic modalities and participating in the redesign of health services as key strategies to support them during the pandemic as these would promote patient well-being. Lastly, the pandemic provided opportunities for HCPs to deepen their understanding of other professions. This awareness was viewed as a strength that could support interprofessional collaboration and enhance health services redesign. The findings and recommendations can assist leaders to address the mental health challenges arising from the pandemic.