Effects of the infection prevention and control measures on the mental health of healthcare workers in Canada

OBJECTIVES Healthcare workers (HCWs) are exposed to infection and psychological discomfort while delivering medical care during a pandemic. The safety of healthcare professionals is essential. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about substantial changes in the global workplace environment. The objective of the proposed study was to elucidate the psychological effects of infection prevention and control methods on healthcare personnel throughout Canada during the widespread presence of COVID-19. METHODS Statistics Canada conducted a web-based, cross-sectional survey among healthcare workers from November 2020 to December 2020. Bivariable analyses investigated the relationship between mental health outcomes and exposure variables in healthcare workers, while regression analyses quantified the strength of these associations. RESULTS HCWs with ‘masks for patients’ reported lower stress (OR 0.71, 95% CI 0.55–0.96) versus no masks, whereas ‘visitor management’ was associated with worsened mental health (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.10–1.32) compared to before the COVID-19. CONCLUSION The infection prevention and control measures during COVID-19 exert influences on healthcare workers' mental health. As the outbreak continues, healthcare institutions and organizations should recognize the significance of equipping HCWs with IPC measures that balance protection with support for HCWs’ psychological well-being.