We developed and evaluated a digital learning package using Agile methodology within the first three weeks of the UK COVID-19 outbreak. The project is led by Dr Holly Blake. This e-package includes evidence-based guidance, support and signposting relating to psychological wellbeing for all UK healthcare employees. A three-step rapid development process included public involvement activities (PPIs):
- Step 1: content and technical development with iterative peer review
- Step 2: delivery
- Step 3: evaluation
The package outlines the actions that team leaders can take to provide psychologically safe spaces for staff, together with guidance on communication and reducing social stigma, peer and family support, signposting others through psychological first aid (PFA), self-care strategies, and managing emotions. Within six weeks of release, the package had been accessed by over 35,000 healthcare workers.
The e-package is now being evaluated with healthcare students in a second study: the 'PoWerS Study: Psychological Wellbeing for Healthcare Students: evaluation of a COVID-19 digital learning package'. Qualitative interviews will shed insight on the emotional highs and lows of being a healthcare student during the pandemic and perceptions of students towards the value of this resource to support their psychological wellbeing.
For more information, contact Dr Holly Blake. Ethics Approval: FMHS REC ref 39-0620.
Open access, free, online resource available here
Access the original journal article here.
Find out more about the online resource for heathcare workers or visit the Florence Nigtingale Foundation blog for information about the psychological wellbeing of nurses and midwives during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Posted on Monday 15th June 2020