The Psychosocial Impact of COVID-19 on Healthcare Workers: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background. COVID-19 has created a worldwide health emergency due to pandemic-imposed restrictions, which has resulted in psychosocial problems, especially for frontline healthcare workers like nurses.

Objective. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychosocial health of healthcare workers and the subsequent coping strategies employed.

Methods. A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used. The study included 413 healthcare workers at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital in Parklane, Nigeria, using a snowball and enumeration sampling technique. The researcher developed a survey questionnaire to evaluate the respondents. The actual sample size for the study was calculated using the Open Epi technique. The researcher evaluated the population under study using proportionate stratified sampling and the inversion sampling method as statistical tools.

Results. The findings revealed that female nurses aged 40 to 46 predominantly experienced challenging moments that emerged from quarantine, isolation, and burnout-related problems because of COVID-19. There was a significant variation in the problems associated with anxiety, depression, and recurrent fear. The study revealed that the nurses consistently used coping strategies for anxiety, such as rest, calm practice, spiritual uplift, and music. The nurses frequently turned to openness and other forms of spiritual stimulation due to their fear of uncertainty and depression. There was a significant correlation between sociodemographic characteristics and psychosocial stressors. The effects of quarantine were significantly impacted by age. Consequently, the results showed that coping strategies for fear, anxiety, and depression, as well as age, marital status, and previous experiences, were strongly and significantly correlated with gender.

Conclusion. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted all the variables. The nurses underwent a challenging period, dealing with issues related to quarantine, isolation, and burnout, as well as significant variations in anxiety, depression, and recurrent fear.

Consequently, more male staff and institutional readiness lessen anxiety, fear, and depression. Encouraging patient advocacy and providing educational training about infectious diseases are priorities because they improve patient care and healthcare workers' safety. These coping strategies can improve the social and mental well-being of healthcare professionals, as well as their physical health. Thus, further study in areas like social dynamics and relationships is encouraged.