About this episode

The episode discusses the mental health challenges faced by PICU staff in high-intensity environments in the Middle East.

This episode of the World PICU Awareness Week 2026 podcast series explores the realities of working in pediatric intensive care across the Middle East, with a focus on the wellbeing of healthcare professionals. Through expert insights and real-life experiences, the discussion highlights the emotional impact of high-intensity PICU environments – moving beyond burnout to address deeper challenges such as moral distress and moral injury. Practical strategies are shared, from simple daily practices that strengthen team connection to structured organizational initiatives that support resilience and retention. The episode also examines the role of leadership in fostering psychologically safe environments, as well as the influence of culture, family dynamics, and faith in shaping care across the region. HOST Raghad Al Abdwani Head of Division of Pediatric Critical Care Sultan Qaboos. University Hospital, University Medical City, Muscat, Oman GUEST Marianne Majdalani Head of Division of Pediatric Critical Care American University of Beirut Medical Center Ashley Cowan Clinical Nurse Facilitator Sidra Hospital Caroline McIntire Manager of Child Life Services Sidra Medicine DATE Initial…

People in this episode

Host: Raghad Al Abdwani

Guests: Marianne Majdalani, Ashley Cowan, Caroline McIntire

Topics covered

• mental health
• pediatric intensive care
• healthcare professionals
• moral distress
• team connection
• leadership
• psychological safety

Keywords

• PICU
• mental health
• burnout
• moral injury
• resilience
• leadership
• healthcare culture

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Sidra Hospital, Sidra Medicine

Places: Middle East

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• Strength in the System: Caregiver Wellbeing in African PICUs · May 5, 2026 · 29 min

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