Psychological impact of the covid-19 pandemic on health care personnel working in COVID settings

INTRODUCTION: COVID19 pandemic had a significant psychological impact on the population worldwide. However, health care workers have been the most exposed to psychological effects. OBJECTIVES: To determine the psychological impact of the covid19 pandemic on health care professionals (HCPs) who were working in the covid19 setting. METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study carried out in May 2020, having interested the HCPs of the Charles Nicolle hospital who were working in the COVID19 settings .The data collection was carried out with a pre-established questionnaire .The visual analog scale of B. Chini was used to assess the level of work stress. This assessment was undertaken at three points in time: during the work, during the confinement period and post confinement . RESULTS: Seventy five nurses participated to the study. The average age was 39.7±9.6 years. The sex ratio was 0.74. The average professional seniority was 11.6±8.14 years. During the confinement, a feeling of anxiety and apprehension of danger to others were reported by 96% of the participants. In addition, sleep disorders and irritability were noticed in 65% and 92% of cases respectively. At the end of the confinement period, 77% of the cases reported neuropsychological complaints: feelings of anxiety (57%), mood disorders (49%), a sleep disorders (32%) and concentration disorders (20%). The average level of stress was evaluated at 7.54 during the work, 7.36 during confinement and 5.28 after confinement. Faced with this psychological suffering, 88% of the cases noted the absence of psychological support or assistance. CONCLUSIONS: Psychological support and early screening in psychiatry and occupational medicine are necessary to prevent any deterioration in their mental health. DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST: None Declared