Psychological Considerations in the Intersection of Infectious Disease with Critical Care Medicine

This chapter discusses the intersection between infectious disease and critical care and how it has impacted the delivery of critical care medicine as well as the ability to provide rehabilitation and psychological intervention. It also considers the psychological implications for critical care staff, relationships at work and team dynamics, and the requirements for staff support. Specific issues encountered during worldwide pandemics are also reviewed, along with implications for future practice. The family of coronavirus illnesses are highlighted, including Middle East respiratory syndrome, severe acute respiratory syndrome, and coronavirus, which causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Similarities and differences between practices in the United Kingdom and United States are also discussed.