Reflections on Healthcare Worker Safety and Mental Health: Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic for Primary Healthcare Centers

• Authors: V. I. Agbajelola , B. S. Ayanyemi
• Languages of publication: EN

Abstracts

EN

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, particularly in safeguarding the health and well-being of healthcare workers (HCWs). This review highlights critical safety practices and mental health strategies essential for protecting HCWs in primary healthcare centers during public health emergencies. Key areas explored include injury prevention, effective environmental cleaning, waste management, ventilation systems, and timely post-exposure evaluations. The importance of effective communication and tailored task delegation to reduce occupational risks is also emphasized. Additionally, the review addresses the mental health toll of the pandemic on HCWs, identifying contributing factors such as workload pressures, lack of confidence in protective measures, and social isolation. The psychological impact, including anxiety, depression, and burnout, not only compromises the well-being of HCWs but also affects healthcare delivery. Strategies for mitigating these risks include providing access to confidential mental health services, fostering a culture of prevention, and implementing stigma-free support systems. By prioritizing safety and mental health, healthcare institutions can build resilient systems that protect HCWs while ensuring high-quality patient care. These measures are critical for enhancing healthcare systems' preparedness and response to current and future public health crises.

Keywords

EN

COVID-19; healthcare workers; lessons; mental health; safety

Discipline

• MEDICINE: MEDICINE

• Publisher: Scientific Publishing House „DARWIN”
• Journal: World News of Natural Sciences
• Year: 2025
• Volume: 58
• Pages: 226-239

Contributors

author

V. I. Agbajelola

• Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, University of Missouri, Columbia 65211, Missouri, USA

author

B. S. Ayanyemi

• Department of Health Promotion and Education, Faculty of Public Health, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

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• Document Type: article