Patients in permanent vegetative or minimally conscious states: A literature review of the psychological and health impacts on healthcare personnel

Abstract

BACKGROUND: To address the quality of life of patients in Permanent Vegetative or Minimally Conscious States, the occupational health of those around them must also be taken into account. OBJECTIVE: By analyzing how the available scientific literature has addressed this issue, this study seeks to better understand how caring for these patients affects healthcare professionals’ psychological and health status. METHODS: We identified and selected 15 publications from both Anglophone and Francophone databases, i.e., Cairn, Francis, HAL, PsycINFO, PubMed, ResearchGate and ScienceDirect. RESULTS: The reviewed publications and studies highlight the difficulties healthcare professionals face with regard to the relationship with patients and their families. Two studies in particular suggest that the difficulties these professionals experience daily can lead to burnout. Other potential burnout factors include the healthcare profession category, the work environment, lack of training and the time spent working with this specific group of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Our literature review highlights the institutional and personal resources that may prevent these occupational risks. It also provides avenues for future research.