Features of the psychoemotional state of doctors providing medical care in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Due to the difficult working conditions, the lack of effective treatment methods, and the high mortality rate, the work of doctors with a new coronavirus infection significantly affects their mental and emotional state.

Objective. To study the features of the psychoemotional state of doctors, providing medical care in the context of a pandemic of a new coronavirus infection in Smolensk.

Material and methods. A questionnaire was developed to study the psychoemotional state of health professionals. 110 doctors working with COVID-19 patients were interviewed at the bases of the Smolensk Regional Emergency Hospital, the Clinical Emergency Hospital, and the Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Smolensk. The results of the responses were statistically analyzed and revised.

Results. There was an increased level of anxiety (average score 8.427) and depression (average score 7.518). 26.4% of the respondents were found to have a gross sleep disorder. 76.4% of doctors indicated a deterioration in their condition since starting work with COVID-19 patients. For the majority of medical professionals, the main factors that help to maintain normal psychoemotional state are the support of relatives and colleagues (93.6%) and the provision of PPE (74.5%).

Conclusions. According to the results of the study, increased anxiety, depression and deterioration of the general condition of doctors working in «red zones» were found. An extremely low organization and availability of psychological support for doctors struggling with a new coronavirus infection was revealed.

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