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Impact on Healthcare Workers

In the news...Healthcare workers reported increased physical and mental problems during the pandemic. (Read about "Coronaviruses") Stress, burnout, pain and poor sleep were some of the most frequent symptoms reported by nursing and other staff. (Read about "Stress" "Sleep")

Poor physical and mental health was frequent in a recent study of healthcare workers. The study showed that 86 percent reported burnout and 81 percent suffered from stress. They slept badly, experienced depression and complained of aches and pains. (Read about "Depressive Illnesses") On the other hand, most said they were happy to provide meaningful services to society.

The data presented in the article show a high prevalence of musculoskeletal symptoms: 64 percent reported neck pain, 62 percent shoulder pain, 58 percent upper back pain and 61 percent lower back pain.

The frequency of psychosocial problems is striking, according to the authors, with stress affecting 81 percent of the participants and 86 percent suffering burnout. Symptoms of mild depression were detected in 22 percent, moderate depression in 16 percent and severe depression in 8 percent. In addition, 74.4 percent said they slept badly.

COVID-19 can cause a range of issues, from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say symptoms can appear days after exposure and include:

This list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC says it will continue to update this list as it learns more about COVID-19.

If you have any symptoms, do not go into work. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Trouble breathing and /or persistent pain or pressure in the chest indicate an emergency situation and you should seek help. If you or someone around you develops new confusion or inability to arouse that too is a reason to seek care. Bluish lips or face can indicate a low oxygen level and should also be treated as an emergency.

As with other diseases caused by coronaviruses, COVID-19 is believed to spread from person to person through droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

CDC says it is important that people take steps to protect themselves, including:

If you have any symptoms, do not go into work. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Note: Statements and conclusions of study authors that are published here are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect this hospital's policy or position. This hospital makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability.

All Concept Communications material is provided for information only and is neither advice nor a substitute for proper medical care. Consult a qualified healthcare professional who understands your particular history for individual concerns.

© Concept Communications Media Group LLC

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By printing and/or reading this article, you agree that you accept all terms and conditions of use, as specified online.