Profesionales sanitarios: Afrontando el impacto emocional por la COVID-19 en un centro monográfi co de cáncer

Abstract

Introduction: The psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is unquestionable, especially among the most vulnerable groups. Healthcare workers conform one of these groups. The aim of this paper is to describe the implementation of a psychological intervention plan designed to protect the mental health of healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 crisis, carried out by the Psycho-Oncology Unit in a monographic cancer hospital. Method: This is a 3-phase process: 1) narrative review of the literature; 2) description of the development of a plan of care and psychological support for professionals, both individually and in groups; 3) description of the implementation of the plan focused primarily on providing a restorative space for suffering relief, and for both legitimizing and normalizing emotional reactions providing simple strategies to cope with the situation. Results: A total of 67 interventions were performed for 20 groups and 20 individuals by a clinical psychologist. Medical, nursing, nursing assistance, and administrative staff participated. Fear of self contagion or contagion to another was considered the main manifestation, together with fear of inadequate patient care. Emotional distress at the onset of the pandemic was assessed with an EVA score of 5/10 (very bad-excellent). In all, 100 % of the professionals who attended the sessions felt that they were very helpful, scoring an EVA of 8/10. They also showed very high satisfaction levels (9/10). A total of 100 % considered that this type of session should be done again in similar situations in the future. Conclusions: The psychological support plan offered to healthcare workers during the pandemic is (subjectively) therapeutic. Permanent prevention strategies focused on protecting mental health in the most vulnerable groups are recommended, as well as specific studies in case of a new pandemic.