(in German)

Moral stress is the psychological response to morally challenging situations. An interview study conducted by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (Bundesanstalt für Arbeitsschutz und Arbeitsmedizin, BAuA) shows that moral stress can be generated by a diversity of situations encountered in home care. It has negative health consequences for employees and should therefore be addressed as a factor in occupational safety and health. If moral stress is to be prevented and/or mitigated, action should be taken, firstly, to manage the kinds of situation that trigger it (e.g. by reducing time pressure, avoiding requests to cover for colleagues at short notice, allocating a set amount of time for each client instead of requiring employees to perform predefined care activities). Secondly, constructive coping mechanisms should be supported and promoted (e.g. by strengthening social interaction formats such as handovers, staff meetings, and case conferences; bringing in external ethical consultants; implementing supportive management strategies). Thirdly, policymaking actors are called upon to contribute to the prevention and mitigation of moral stress in the home care sector.

Please download the complete leaflet "Moral Stress in the Home Care Sector" (in German only).