Lessons From a Crisis: A Thematic Analysis on Occupational Stress in Staff in an Acute Paediatric Teaching Hospital in Ireland

Abstract

Aims The COVID-19 pandemic placed increased pressure on service provision and healthcare worker [HCW] wellness. As the pandemic recedes, staff need an appropriate response to facilitate individual and organisational recovery, to minimise long-term healthcare worker burnout and to be better equipped for future crisis in healthcare. The aim was to explore and reflect on the experiences of staff working during the COVID-19 pandemic in an acute paediatric hospital to determine an appropriate response in the post-crisis work environment. Methods A Qualitative research design using responses from open ended questions from one hundred and thirty-three clinical and non-clinical staff (89% clinical) from an Irish paediatric teaching hospital. Reponses were thematically analysed. Results HCWs experienced frustration, uncertainty, anxiety and stress, during the pandemic crisis. This included communication inconsistencies, inadequate support and staffing and other resource shortages, leaving staff at high risk for long-term burnout as the pandemic recedes. Three themes were developed detailing this; 1) Support, 2) Communication and 3) Trust. Conclusion This research supports the long-standing need to increase mental health service investment and to implement an appropriate response to regain and maintain a healthy workforce, post COVID-19. This response should address the biopsychosocial needs of the individual and healthcare organisations should work dynamically, creatively and collaboratively to ensure the psychological safety of its workforce moving forward.