Reflections on a webinar approach to support nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) resulted in over 54 000 deaths in South Africa. The healthcare system, specifically nurses, was stretched in providing care for critically ill patients who tested positive for COVID-19. As the disease burden increased, the frontline nurses experienced physical and emotional exhaustion. The Psychiatric Nursing Association (PNA) was tasked with providing emotional support to frontline nurses amid the pandemic, and online webinars were presented to generate a platform for support. This article provides reflections on the webinar approach followed by the PNA in supporting frontline nurses during the pandemic. Reflections refer to lessons learned and planning for the future.