The Impacts of COVID-19 on Veterans Affairs Catheterization Laboratory Staff During the First Six Months of the US Response: A National Mixed-Methods Study
Presenter
Heather Gilmartin, PhD, Denver/Seattle Center of Innovation, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO
Heather Gilmartin, PhD1, Candice Mueller1, Catherine Battaglia, PhD, RN1, Meg Plomondon, PhD1, Stephen W Waldo, MD1 and Jacob A. Doll, M.D.2, (1)Denver/Seattle Center of Innovation, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, (2)The University of Washington, Seattle, WA
Keywords: COVID-19, Cath Lab Administration, Occupational Health & Safety and Quality
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered catheterization lab (cath lab) practices in diverse ways. The impact of COVID-19 on Veterans Affairs (VA) cath lab teams has not been systematically assessed. Methods
Using a mixed-methods survey emailed in August 2020, we queried physicians, nurses, and technicians working in VA cath labs about their medical center and cath lab response to COVID-19. Descriptive and manifest content analyses were conducted on demographics and an open-text item.
Results
170 staff from 67 VA cath labs responded. This represents 19% (170/902) of identifiable staff and 83% (67/81) of VA cath labs. Most cath labs slowed or stopped elective procedures at the request of leadership, and many staff were reassigned to other units. Participants described an initial period of confusion regarding patient testing for COVID-19, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and low patient volume. Though some staff settled into the situation, others voiced ongoing concerns about being pulled to other areas, feelings of anxiety and burnout, and the impact on team morale. Participants reflected on how leadership and colleagues can act as both stressors and support mechanisms (Figure 1). Impacts on staff wellbeing and team dynamics were noted whether or not the cath lab treated COVID-19 patients.
Conclusions
Over time, some teams adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic while others expressed continued frustrations over the lack of control over their practice.
The findings provide a guide for institutions to assess the needs of cath lab teams during the current and future crises. 