Fear and anxiety of COVID-19 in health care workers in a tertiary teaching hospital designated as COVID-19 19 hospital

Abstract

Background: Large scale natural disasters in the past have caused widespread disruptions and have been associated with affecting the mental health. Depression, anxiety and other behavioral and psychological disturbances are frequently associated. Anxiety among health care workers in this novel situation could be triggered by various factors including lack of clarity on treatment guidelines and policies in the context of an evolving picture and increasing patient load. Aims: To study the levels of Anxiety and fear of COVID 19 in health care workers  Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional online survey design, 225 health care workers in a medical college hospital designated to admit and treat COVID cases were included and  assessed using questionnaires to measure levels of anxiety and fear to COVID 19 Results: Majority of the health care workers were worried about the current COVID 19 situation and those involved in active COVID duties reported moderate levels of anxiety, health related anxiety and fear of COVID 19. Education, income and urban background significantly affected the anxiety in health care workers. Conclusion: The COVID 19 pandemic is not just a medical phenomenon but it also playing with minds of health care providers. The balance of professional duties and demands with taking care of themselves needs special emphasis. Considering the impact of COVID 19 on psychological well-being and mental health of health care providers adequate measures at government, institutional and individual levels are required.