Linking worker safety to patient safety: Recommendations and bioethical issues for the care of patients in the covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objective: the aim of this article is to discuss the implications of the connection between safety and bioethical issues for evidence-based care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: reflective analysis with the guiding question: “How can professional and patient safety be linked to bioethical issues during the COVID-19 pandemic?” Results: the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged countries around the world, mainly due to the collapse of the health system that could threaten the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Connecting worker safety to patient safety is imperative for safe care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Aspects related to professional qualification and the provision and proper use of personal protective equipment permeate an environment of economic and political crisis that accentuates tensions and can interfere in decision-making, greatly affecting the results of the care provided. This article presents reflections and recommendations to support healthcare providers in making decisions that involve bioethical issues during the care process in times of scarce resources generated by the COVID-19 pandemic.