By Ted Shaw, President/CEO, Texas Hospital Association
Hospitals and health care workers prepared for the spread of COVID-19 early on. They consulted and implemented expert infection control procedures. They found ways to safely reuse personal protective equipment when masks where in short supply. They have adjusted patient areas to separate potentially infectious individuals from the general population. Direct care staff have taken the appropriate precautions to protect themselves from contracting COVID-19 so they can continue providing essential care. But prioritizing mental wellness and managing stress is just as important for frontline staff during these challenging times.
Early in the pandemic, the public showed immense support of health care heroes. In urban areas, communities recognized them each night with organized cheering and applause. Local leaders lit buildings in blue light to show their support. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Air Force Thunderbirds conducted flyovers across the country as a tribute to health care workers. Celebrities and the public took to social media to thank and praise staff for their tireless work.
With COVID-19 hospitalizations continuing to rise, we cannot underestimate the physical and emotional toll this work takes on frontline workers. They need support now more than ever. Certainly, we can support health care workers by promoting and adhering to face coverings and social distancing. But we also must address the mental exhaustion and stress the pandemic has on frontline staff.
Health care leaders are encouraged to remind staff that it’s OK to not be OK. Through the course of their work, direct care providers may feel a wide range of emotions – anxiety, sadness, frustration and even hopelessness. Health care leaders are encouraged to listen to their staff and assure them that these feelings are not a sign of weakness. Work together to identify the most significant stressors and help identify solutions that are within reach.
Health care leaders can make staff feel appreciated by acknowledging their work individually and sharing positive feedback from others – whether from members of the public on social media or notes from past patients. Showing gratitude, whether it’s through social media, a kind word or a classic thank you note, can have a tremendous impact on morale during a challenge.
Although COVID-19 care is ongoing and patient caseloads are increasing, it is important that direct care staff take a mental break from this work when appropriate. This can be achieved by limiting the amount of COVID-19 content, including news media coverage, that staff take in during non-work hours. Creating separation from the news and social media can help staff disconnect from stressors and potential triggers that are beyond control. If you live with a health care worker, dedicate time at home that is unplugged from COVID-19-related content and allow time for recharge. Encourage music or podcasts that will help with unwinding; silence is OK too.
Lastly, if a health care worker is struggling to cope with a mental health condition or if a condition is worsening, encourage professional help. The same guidance applies to health care workers: keep your providers up to date about any new or worsening symptoms.
COVID-19 will continue to test, stretch and strain our staff. Care for the caregivers is essential to a strong response to this pandemic. Texas hospitals urge the health care community and the public to do their part to help protect the mental health and wellness of direct care staff. Texas can get through this pandemic, but we must support one another along the way.