Mitigating the psychological effects of COVID-19 on health care workers

Key Points:

Health care workers may experience considerable psychologic distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic due to providing direct patient care, vicarious trauma, quarantine or selfisolation.

Strong leadership with clear, honest and open communication is needed to offset fears and uncertainties.

Provision of adequate resources (e.g., medical supplies) and mental health supports will bolster individual self-efficacy and confidence.

Leveraging online technology will allow delivery of psychosocial supports while preserving physical distancing.

Emphasizing the altruism of working in health care and serving of the greater good will help health care workers to be reminded of their purpose in a time of crisis.