Over Half of La Guaira's Emergency Nurses Report Psychological Distress After Earthquakes

More than half of the nursing personnel serving in La Guaira, Venezuela, are suffering from psychological problems in the aftermath of the June 24 earthquakes, according to a survey conducted in the state most affected by the tremors. The findings, presented by the Federation of Colleges of Nurses of Venezuela, the College of Nursing of La Guaira, and the University of Carabobo (UC), indicate that approximately 54% of the surveyed healthcare workers are experiencing acute stress. Furthermore, the report highlights that 6% require urgent psychiatric attention, as reported by El Carabobeño. The research also documented the tragic deaths of nine nursing professionals. An additional 114 nursing professionals sustained injuries, and at least 48 remain displaced from their homes. The study was led by the national federation's Commission for Research and Documentation, headed by Julio García, president of the College of Nurses of Carabobo State. García announced that the document has been submitted to the International Council of Nurses and will also be presented to civil authorities in Venezuela, specifically the Ministry of Health and the Governorate of La Guaira. Key recommendations from the report include the creation of a triage and psychological support program for all nursing staff. The commission also proposed establishing rotating shifts to alleviate excessive workloads and conducting evaluations before healthcare workers return to their duties. Another critical request is the provision of an exclusive logistical transport corridor for healthcare personnel working in La Guaira. The report further outlines a contingency food plan, including the distribution of food packages, and calls for the establishment of safe overnight spaces within healthcare facilities for those who have lost their homes or whose residences suffered severe damage.