COVID-19

Don’t let the defense fail …

CARING FOR THE CARE GIVERS

OUR HEALTHCARE WORKERS FIGHTING COVID -19…!

COVID-19outbreakisa stressful time for healthcaresystems across the world. Being at the forefront of battle against this pandemic, healthcare workers especially nurses are putting their lives at stake. For every nationregardless of their geopolitical and socioeconomic status in the world,are dealing with this invisibleenemy. Countries who overestimated their ability to deal with the pandemic are currently paying the price. Overwhelming rate of morbidity and mortality associated with SARSCoV-2is not only affecting the psyche of public, but also the nurses who are thefrontline warriors. It is imperative to address physicaland emotionalwellbeing of nurses at this instance, especially to prevent burnout and promote resilience. Effortsto mitigatestrugglesranging from obtainingappropriate personal Protective Equipment(PPE) to psychologicaland emotional trauma associated with caregiver fatigueare important to keep the warriorsbattle strongfor the upcoming waves for Covid-19pandemic.

Compassion fatigueand related issues areas importantof an issue as prevention of infection by SARS-CoV-2 virus. Sinceregulators and administratorsare heavily focused on infection prevention strategies due to the high rate of spreadof the virusand media attention, little focus has been given to keep the nurses emotionally resilientinthis existential battle. As we are experiencing an unprecedented event, every oneof us should take charge of this psychological supportsystem for ourselves and our fellow beings. Concerns of transmission of illness to family and friends, societal stigmaof health care workersassociated 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 acknowledgeone’s own emotions and stressorsto 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 deescalateinner conflicts. Building and maintaining social connectionsis one the most effective wayto promote positivity and emotional health.