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 publication date: May 8, 2026
TRANSCRIPTS
English - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript
Spanish - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=7
French - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=3
Portuguese - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=6
Italian - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=5
German - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=4
Arabic - https://cdn.bfldr.com/D6LGWP8S/as/qjxhnqx8jt9zvn848svp2955/Middle_East_26_transcript?position=2
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