COVID Patient Psychology Staff Guide 1

Background

Research shows that many patients may be distressed in the ICU. Delirious patients are often especially fearful. Patients may have emotional difficulties such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress during a long recovery period. Being in ICU during the Covid-19 pandemic may be even more challenging.

The good news

Emotional support and good communication/information from
staff help to give patients a sense of calm, safety, connectedness, confidence and hope. This is called Psychological First Aid – see Staff guide Part 2 to enhance your skills.