Protecting workers' well-being in times of crisis: the first wave of COVID-19 in an Australian healthcare setting in 2020

Abstract

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic continues to challenge healthcare systems worldwide. The authors examined the lived experiences and perceptions of healthcare workers (HCWs) in managerial and senior positions to explore the pandemic's effects on well-being and valued organisational responses.Design/methodology/approachUsing purposive sampling, the authors conducted 39 semi-structured interviews with senior staff including health service administrators, heads of department and senior clinicians at a designated COVID-19 facility in New South Wales, Australia. Interviews were conducted from November 2020 to February 2021 to reflect on experiences during the height of the pandemic in 2020 (mid-March to the end of May 2020).FindingsWorkplace experiences affecting HCWs' well-being included being shunned by others, fear of infecting family, fear of the unknown, concerns about personal protective equipment, lack of direction from above and increased workload. Organisational interventions to protect the health and safety of HCWs and their patients included redeployment, improved communication, effective management committees, education and mental health supports.Practical implicationsOrganisations can minimise worker-identified factors threatening their well-being during a health crisis by applying broad-ranging initiatives including inclusive and open communication, promoting flexible work practices, providing up-to-date guidelines and policies and fostering camaraderie between workers.Originality/valueThe voices of senior clinical and managerial staff have been largely unheard during the COVID-19 pandemic. The authors addressed this deficit by describing their experiences and insights regarding the pandemic's impact on well-being and the organisation's responses to simultaneously safeguarding its staff and providing quality patient care.

How and when psychological capital enhances well-being at work: evidence from the Tunisian healthcare professionals

“…Moreover, to our knowledge, previous studies have yet to survey healthcare professionals to examine this relationship specifically. Considering the increasing demands and pressures healthcare professionals face, it is crucial to explore avenues that promote their well-being (Achat et al. , 2023).…”

“…Moreover, to our knowledge, previous studies have yet to survey healthcare professionals to examine this relationship specifically. Considering the increasing demands and pressures healthcare professionals face, it is crucial to explore avenues that promote their well-being (Achat et al, 2023). By addressing this gap within the Tunisian healthcare sector, we can contribute to the development of evidence-based interventions and strategies that enhance the psychological well-being of healthcare professionals, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and overall healthcare system performance.…”