Abstract
The onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 has changed social,
economic and health dynamics. The impact on gender, race, class and
geography is significant, with women, frontline healthcare workers (HCW)
facing an intense burden in managing the COVID-19 virus. Through a
systematic review of literature on HCW experiences, we bring to the fore the
multiple and intersectional burdens that HCW face. The domestic role of
HCW is significant for both nuclear and extended family. The increased risk
of exposure is a concern, affirming that women face a greater risk of
exposure. The increased vulnerability relates to the ill fit of personal
protective equipment (PPE), physical exhaustion, mental stress, extended
shifts, fear of transmission and regulation of patient access to medical care
imposes complex challenges. Global north HCWs reflected noticeable
confidence in patient care associated with adequate resources and medicalgrade PPE. Global south HCWs faced higher exposure levels with
inadequate care resources and medical-grade PPE. This study outlines
critical responsibilities that highlight social and psychological support with
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consideration for the safety and wellbeing of women HCWs. A secondary
desktop research approach was adopted to present a gendered analysis of
COVID-19 patient care experiences. The ethical requirement of research is
preserved. The clinical model amalgamates the gendered perspective that the
healthcare sector reinforces in the interest of gender equity in patient care
delivery. The data span from January 2020–March 2021. We reveal the
significance of prioritising women’s experiences, burdened with an
increasing workload.