The psychosocial impact of flu influenza pandemics on healthcare workers and lessons learnt for the COVID-19 emergency: a rapid review

Serena Barello (), Anna Falcó-Pegueroles (), Debora Rosa (), Angela Tolotti (), Guendalina Graffigna () and Loris Bonetti ()
Additional contact information
Serena Barello: EngageMinds HUB – Consumer, Food and Health Engagement Research Center
Anna Falcó-Pegueroles: University of Barcelona
Debora Rosa: Don Carlo Gnocchi Foundation
Angela Tolotti: Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), EOC
Guendalina Graffigna: EngageMinds HUB – Consumer, Food and Health Engagement Research Center
Loris Bonetti: Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland (IOSI), EOC

International Journal of Public Health, 2020, vol. 65, issue 7, No 23, 1205-1216

Abstract: Abstract Objectives During a pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) are essential to the health system response. Based on our knowledge, little information is available regarding the psychosocial impact on HCWs or interventions for supporting them during pandemics. Therefore, the study aimed to assess available literature on perceived stress and psychological responses to influenza pandemics in HCWs and identify implications for healthcare practice and future research. Methods This is a rapid review of the literature. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Results Across all the studies—both qualitative and quantitative—HCWs working during the epidemic reported frequent concerns regarding their own health and the fear of infecting their families, friends and colleagues. Moreover, social isolation, uncertainty, fears of stigmatization and reluctance to work or considering absenteeism were frequently reported. Moreover, many studies highlighted a high prevalence of high levels of stress, anxiety and depression symptoms, which could have long-term psychological implications in HCWs. Conclusions This rapid review offers an overview of the major concerns regarding HCWs’ psychosocial well-being and possible preventive strategies, which could be useful for the current COVID-19 outbreak and similar future pandemics. Studies suggested to invest on preventive psychological, social, family and physical support and to guaranteeing reasonable work conditions and others in order to protect HCWs from the long-lasting psychological effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19; Pandemics; Psychology; Health personnel; Nurse; Physician (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01463-7

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