The Impacts of COVID-19 on Veterans Affairs Catheterization Laboratory Staff During the First Months of the US Response. Issue 6 (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gilmartin, Heather M.; Plomondon, Mary E.; Mueller, Candice; Connelly, Brigid; Battaglia, Catherine; Waldo, Stephen W.; Doll, Jacob
• Is Part Of: Journal of cardiovascular nursing. Volume 36:Issue 6(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- interventional cardiology -- qualitative -- veterans; Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- Nursing -- Periodicals; Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Heart -- Diseases -- Nursing -- Periodicals; Heart -- Diseases -- Prevention -- Periodicals; 616.10231
• DOI: 10.1097/JCN.0000000000000828
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0889-4655

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has altered catheterization laboratory (cath lab) practices in diverse ways. Objective: The aim of this study was to understand the impact of COVID-19 on Veterans Affairs (VA) procedural volume and cath lab team experience. Methods: Procedural volume and COVID-19 patient data were obtained from the Clinical, Assessment, Reporting and Tracking Program. A mixed methods survey was emailed to VA cath lab staff asking about the COVID-19 response. Descriptive and manifest content analyses were conducted. Results: Procedural volume decreased from April to September 2020. One hundred four patients with known COVID-19 were treated. Survey response rate was 19% of staff (n = 170/902) from 83% of VA cath labs (n = 67/81). Reassignment to other units, confusion regarding COVID-19 testing, personal protective equipment use, and low patient volume were reported. Anxiety, burnout, and leadership's role on team morale were described. Conclusions: Some teams adapted. Others expressed frustration over the lack of control over their practice. Leaders should routinely assess staff needs during the current and future crises.