Psychological suffering in health professionals: a reflection in times of the pandemic by COVID-19

Abstract

Objective: To reflect on the precipitating events of psychological suffering in health professionals in times of pandemic. Method: Reflective essay about situations that, in the context of Covid-19, may be contributing to the triggering and/ or intensification of psychological distress in health professionals. Results: Peer contamination, difficulty in carrying out diagnostic tests, deficit of professionals, relocation of professionals, insufficient/ inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and extensive documentation for clinical management are events related to the precipitation of psychological distress in health professionals. Conclusion: Health professionals experience, during the Covid-19 pandemic period, a work routine permeated by several events that contribute to psychological suffering, especially related to physical exhaustion and the fear of contracting and/ or relaying illness.