Effects of COVID-19 Measures on Moral Injury in Healthcare Workers in Different Scenarios
During the COVID-19 pandemic, policymakers often had to choose between societal freedoms and preventing the spread of the coronavirus. As more people contracted the virus, pressure on the healthcare system increased. Frontline healthcare workers sometimes had to provide care that fell below their usual standards. Working under high pressure contributed to moral injury among healthcare workers: a lasting mental scar that arises after doing or witnessing something that conflicts with your moral values.
Goal
In this project, we compare how pandemic policies in three countries – the Netherlands, Brazil, and Sweden – have contributed to moral injury among healthcare workers. This allows us to learn how and which policies can prevent moral injury, and how the Netherlands can support healthcare workers and prevent moral injury in future pandemics.
Approach
In the Netherlands, Brazil, and Sweden, we examine how policymakers and the media discussed the policies and the role of frontline healthcare workers. We ask frontline healthcare workers, such as paramedics, ICU professionals, and mortuary staff, to reflect on these issues. We ask about their personal experiences during the pandemic and also discuss how they are doing now. Based on what we learn from the experiences of these healthcare workers, we will distribute a questionnaire in each country to frontline healthcare staff to determine how many have experienced moral injury.
Collaboration partners
Three partners are collaborating on this project. The project is led by Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen, where previous research on moral injury among ICU staff during the pandemic has been conducted. In Brazil, the project is carried out by the Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP). In Sweden, the project is conducted by Umeå University. The project also draws on the expertise of the Netherlands Defence Academy.
(Expected) Results
In this project, policy recommendations will be made to protect the moral and mental well-being of healthcare workers in future pandemic situations. Throughout the project, we will consult with public policymakers, representatives of healthcare organizations, and experts in each country to discuss and refine the recommendations. These recommendations will be published in English, Dutch, Portuguese, and Swedish. The recommendations will be directed at national policymakers, as well as hospitals and healthcare teams.