This letter argues that the greatest source of anxiety for health care workers is not the disagreement among personal protective equipment guidelines but instead is the lack of transparent communication surrounding those guidelines.

To reduce anxiety and foster greater trust with health care workers, public health organizations, government officials, and local hospitals need to be transparent when explaining their decision making. This is especially vital when providing pragmatic advice due to resource shortages. Because these educated, socially engaged individuals are aware of what is occurring in other regions, a clear rationale needs to be given to help health care workers understand and be comfortable with the decisions being made. Openness and transparency is essential for maintaining trust, which is fundamental to the success in fighting the COVID-19 epidemic.