It’s no secret that nurses across Ontario are facing tremendous physical and emotional burnout due to the COVID-19 pandemic. And because of their commitment to caring for others, they have less time to devote to their own health and wellbeing. 

As RNAO continues its unrelenting call on the federal and provincial governments to act on changes needed to support nurses, including increased staffing and access to personal protective equipment, the association has also created a safe space for nurses to candidly share how they’re feeling during this difficult time.

RNAO’s virtual open forum series for nurses was launched in February 2021. There have been three sessions to date, with a combined total of more than 170 participants.

Exclusive to nurse practitioners, registered nurses, registered practical nurses and nursing students in Ontario, this biweekly forum provides a digital place for nurses to hear from one another and to be reassured they are not alone in this battle.

“Today and every week is a conversation about the heart and ensuring we’re there for one another, heart to heart,” RNAO CEO Dr. Doris Grinspun said during one of the sessions. “It’s not to provide counseling, but to provide resources, check the pulse and…make sure no one feels alone in this long journey.” For the inaugural event on Feb. 3, participants shared a moment of silence to honour the sudden and tragic passing of RN and RNAO member Stefanie Van Nguyen.