International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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14 pages, 383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Survey on the Mental Health of Dispensing Pharmacists in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region (France)

by Bernard Massoubre, Tristan Gabriel-Segard, Florence Durupt, Anne-Sophie Malachane, Noémie Anglard, Théophile Tiffet and Catherine Massoubre

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(21), 6988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20216988 - 28 Oct 2023

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Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic intensely involved pharmacists in France, with new responsibilities on a large scale, introducing to dispensary practice the performance of vaccination and nasopharyngeal swabs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of burnout, anxiety, and depression in pharmacists after the [...] Read more.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic intensely involved pharmacists in France, with new responsibilities on a large scale, introducing to dispensary practice the performance of vaccination and nasopharyngeal swabs. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of burnout, anxiety, and depression in pharmacists after the COVID-19 health crisis and to identify factors associated with psychological distress. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study involved 1700 pharmacies in an entire French region. Sociodemographic, geographical, and medical information (burnout tested with the MBI and anxiety/depression measured on the HAD scale) were collected via an online anonymous self-administered questionnaire. The characteristics of the pharmacy and the practice of antigen testing and vaccination were requested. Quantitative and qualitative variables associated with psychological distress were investigated with a factor analysis. Results: In total, 360 responses were collected (20.5%). Of the responses, 41.9% showed definite anxiety symptoms and 18.3% showed proven depressive symptoms. Three clusters were described according to the intensity of burnout experience, depersonalization, and loss of personal accomplishment. The analysis identified that one cluster was at high risk of burnout (high burnout and depersonalization scores). Of these stressed, exhausted pharmacists, 69.3% showed definite anxiety, 37.9% showed proven depression, and in smaller pharmacies. The carrying out of antigenic testing and anti-COVID vaccination, as well as the geographical location of the pharmacy, were not discriminating factors in these three groups. Conclusion: Mental health care and suicide prevention should be provided to at-risk pharmacists. It seems essential to publicize the range of resources available to support pharmacists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

11 pages, 688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Academic Burnout, Family Functionality, Perceived Social Support and Coping among Graduate Students during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Diego Andrade, Icaro J. S. Ribeiro, Viktória Prémusz and Orsolya Maté

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(6), 4832; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20064832 - 9 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3065

Abstract

Academic burnout and the COVID-19 pandemic have greatly impacted the academic life and mental health of graduate students. This study aims to address the mental health issue in graduate students by relating it to family functionality, perceived social support, and coping with academic [...] Read more.

Academic burnout and the COVID-19 pandemic have greatly impacted the academic life and mental health of graduate students. This study aims to address the mental health issue in graduate students by relating it to family functionality, perceived social support, and coping with academic burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data were gathered from a cross-sectional study with 519 graduate students across universities in Hungary and other European countries. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory Student, Family APGAR Index, the brief form of the Perceived Social Support Questionnaire, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to measure academic burnout, family functionality, perceived social support, and coping, respectively. Structural equations modeling was used for statistical analysis. The results revealed a negative effect of family functionality, perceived social support, and coping on academic burnout. The inverse relationship between perceived social support and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was identified, and mediated by coping and family functionality. These findings may offer patterns and predictors for future graduate students and higher-education institutions to identify outside factors that are implicated in academic burnout, especially in outbreaks such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

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32 pages, 5143 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Applying Structural Equation Modelling to Understand the Implementation of Social Distancing in the Professional Lives of Healthcare Workers

by Muhammad Fayyaz Nazir and Shahzadah Fahed Qureshi

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4630; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054630 - 6 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1750

Abstract

This study, based on the normalization process theory (NPT), explores the implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs)—specifically social distancing (SD)—in the professional lives of healthcare workers in three Pakistani hospitals. We collected and analysed health workers’ data using partial least squares structural equation modelling [...] Read more.

This study, based on the normalization process theory (NPT), explores the implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs)—specifically social distancing (SD)—in the professional lives of healthcare workers in three Pakistani hospitals. We collected and analysed health workers’ data using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and assessed the policy implications of the results. Violations of normality assumptions in the quantitative data and the need for scores of independent variables for follow-up analysis guided the researchers to adopt a structural equation modelling process that involved a stepwise evaluation process for convergent validity, individual item validity, discriminant validity, the structural model relationship, and overall model fitness. Theoretical constructs coherence, cognitive participation, collective action, and reflexive monitoring were found to influence the normalization of SD. The results show that SD was normalized in the professional lives of healthcare workers through strong collective action (resources required) and reflexive monitoring (appraisal) but weak cognitive participation (actors’ engagement) and coherence (sense-making). Low and middle-income countries (LMICs) should work more on actors’ sense-making and engagement in dealing with healthcare crises that require SD. The research findings can aid policy institutions in better understanding the loopholes in the implementation process and making better policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

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11 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Hospital Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Hospital-Based Repeated Measures Study

by Mao-Hung Liao, Ying-Ching Lai and Chih-Ming Lin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16114; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316114 - 1 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1712

Abstract

Although many studies have investigated burnout, stress, and mental health issues among health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic, few have linked these relationships to chronic physiological illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases. This study assessed changes in cardiovascular risk factors in HCWs [...] Read more.

Although many studies have investigated burnout, stress, and mental health issues among health care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic, few have linked these relationships to chronic physiological illnesses such as cardiovascular diseases. This study assessed changes in cardiovascular risk factors in HCWs and other hospital workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified vulnerable groups at a higher risk of increased adverse cardiovascular conditions. Five hundred and fourteen hospital employees ≥ 20 years of age underwent physical examinations and laboratory testing once before and once after the first wave of the pandemic in Taiwan during 2020 and 2021. Their sociodemographic characteristics and cardiovascular risk factors, including blood pressure, blood biochemical parameters, and body mass index, were collected. The differences between pre- and post-pandemic measurements of their biophysical and blood biochemical parameters were analyzed using pairwise tests. The post-pandemic increases in their parameter levels and cardiovascular risk as a function of underlying factors were estimated from multivariate regressions. HCWs showed significant increases in levels and abnormal rates of BMI, blood pressure, plasma glucose, and total cholesterol after the pandemic. Post-pandemic increases in BMI, waist circumference, and blood pressure were higher in females than in males. Workers with higher levels of education or longer job tenure had greater increases in BMI, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels than other workers. Females had a higher incidence of abnormal BMI and hypertension than males (adjusted odds ratios [AORs] of 8.3 and 2.9, respectively). Older workers’ incidence of hypertension was higher than younger workers’ (AOR = 3.5). Preventive strategies should be implemented for HCWs susceptible to cardiovascular diseases during emerging infectious disease outbreaks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

14 pages, 724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress Levels, Attitude toward Vaccination and Personal Protective Equipment of Students at Wroclaw Medical University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Aureliusz Andrzej Kosendiak, Bartosz Adamczak, Julia Bania and Sylwiusz Kontek

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 13860; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192113860 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1342

Abstract

The study was conducted in March of 2021 on the students at Wroclaw Medical University from different years and faculties. Students who had mandatory physical education classes in the current year and met other eligibility criteria were enrolled. The aim of the study [...] Read more.

The study was conducted in March of 2021 on the students at Wroclaw Medical University from different years and faculties. Students who had mandatory physical education classes in the current year and met other eligibility criteria were enrolled. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of the pandemic on the lives of medical students. Ultimately, 660 responses to the study were included. To determine the level of stress, KPS questionnaires were used, which distinguish five types of stress. Moreover, the attitudes towards and status of vaccination were examined using PPE and declarative fettle. The findings pointed to a significantly higher level of stress in males compared to females (overall stress, 5.35 and 4.66, p = 0.0002), and increased external stress in some faculties (5.71 in dentistry, compared to overall 4.83, p = 0.009). Furthermore, medical students in their 2nd year were more stressed compared to those in their 1st year (overall stress 4.95 and 4.15, p < 0.0001). By knowing where the stress is highest, we can fight it more effectively and efficiently, by directing resources right where they are needed the most. A study about stress levels during the pandemic compared to physical activity should be developed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

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13 pages, 1354 KiB

Open AccessArticle

COVID-19 Testing Strategies for K-12 Schools in California: A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis

by Sigal Maya, Ryan McCorvie, Kathleen Jacobson, Priya B. Shete, Naomi Bardach and James G. Kahn

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159371 - 30 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2193

Abstract

Public health officials must provide guidance on operating schools safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from April–December 2021, we conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis to assess six screening strategies for schools using SARS-CoV-2 antigen and PCR tests and varying screening frequencies for 1000 [...] Read more.

Public health officials must provide guidance on operating schools safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using data from April–December 2021, we conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis to assess six screening strategies for schools using SARS-CoV-2 antigen and PCR tests and varying screening frequencies for 1000 individuals. We estimated secondary infections averted, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), cost per QALY gained, and unnecessary school days missed per infection averted. We conducted sensitivity analyses for the more transmissible Omicron variant. Weekly antigen testing with PCR follow-up for positives was the most cost-effective option given moderate transmission, adding 0.035 QALYs at a cost of USD 320,000 per QALY gained in the base case (R_eff = 1.1, prevalence = 0.2%). This strategy had the fewest needlessly missed school days (ten) per secondary infection averted. During widespread community transmission with Omicron (R_eff = 1.5, prevalence = 5.8%), twice weekly antigen testing with PCR follow-up led to 2.02 QALYs gained compared to no test and cost the least (USD 187,300), with 0.5 needlessly missed schooldays per infection averted. In periods of moderate community transmission, weekly antigen testing with PCR follow up can help reduce transmission in schools with minimal unnecessary days of school missed. During widespread community transmission, twice weekly antigen screening with PCR confirmation is the most cost-effective and efficient strategy. Schools may benefit from resources to implement routine asymptomatic testing during surges; benefits decline as community transmission declines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

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24 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stress Perception, Sleep Quality and Work Engagement of German Outpatient Nurses during the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Monika Bernburg, Mara Shirin Hetzmann, Natascha Mojtahedzadeh, Felix Alexander Neumann, Matthias Augustin, Volker Harth, David Alexander Groneberg, Birgit-Christiane Zyriax and Stefanie Mache

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 313; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010313 - 28 Dec 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3835

Abstract

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, outpatient nurses have been exposed to a double burden of already known occupational and new pandemic-related stressors. Recent studies suggest that increased pandemic-related stress can affect mental health and promote the development of negative mental health [...] Read more.

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, outpatient nurses have been exposed to a double burden of already known occupational and new pandemic-related stressors. Recent studies suggest that increased pandemic-related stress can affect mental health and promote the development of negative mental health outcomes for nurses. This includes a decrease in sleep quality and work engagement. In addition, certain groups appear to be particularly vulnerable to pandemic-related stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the stress perception of German outpatient nurses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim was to determine associations between their pandemic-related stress and variables such as sleep quality, work engagement, pandemic-related worries and concerns. For this purpose, a questionnaire was developed based on well-established measurement instruments such as the 10-item Perceived Stress Scale, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire to conduct a cross-sectional online survey among outpatient nurses from Germany. Participants (n = 166) showed rather moderate overall pandemic-related stress levels, good sleep quality, high work engagement, and moderate pandemic-related worries and concerns. Pandemic-related stress proved to be a predictor of decreased sleep quality and work engagement of outpatient nurses with weak effect sizes. Despite the surprisingly moderate stress levels, the effects of pandemic-related stress on selected aspects of participants’ mental health could be demonstrated. Therefore, behavioural and organisational health promotion measures are recommended to support outpatient nurses during the pandemic. However, further research is needed to determine the causal relationships and long-term effects of pandemic-related stress on the mental health of outpatient caregivers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

Other

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10 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Role of Occupational Health Services in Planning and Implementing of Staff COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic: A Tertiary Hospital Experience in Singapore

by See Ming Lim, Hwang Ching Chan, Amelia Santosa, Swee Chye Quek, Eugene Hern Choon Liu and Jyoti Somani

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14217; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114217 - 31 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1641

Abstract

Context: Healthcare workers all over the world were prioritized for vaccination against COVID-19 in view of the high-risk nature of their job scopes when vaccines were first available in late 2020. Vaccine hesitancy was an important problem to tackle in order to achieve [...] Read more.

Context: Healthcare workers all over the world were prioritized for vaccination against COVID-19 in view of the high-risk nature of their job scopes when vaccines were first available in late 2020. Vaccine hesitancy was an important problem to tackle in order to achieve a high vaccination rate, especially for vaccines that were developed using mRNA technology. We aimed to use the ‘3Cs’ model to address vaccine hesitancy to ensure maximal uptake of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital in Singapore. Methods: Various measures were used to reduce the confidence, complacency, and convenience barriers. The staff vaccination clinic was on-site and centralized, with appointments given in advance to ensure vaccine availability and to reduce wait time, providing convenience to staff. Direct and repeated communications with the staff via multiple channels were used to address vaccine safety and efficacy so as to promote confidence in the vaccines and overcome complacency barriers. To further encourage staff to get vaccinated, staff were allowed time off for vaccination when at work. Staff with a high risk of exposure to COVID-19 or those caring for immunocompromised patients were prioritized to take the vaccines first. The collection of data on adverse events was via on-site monitoring and consultation at Occupational Health Clinic (OHC). Results: Nearly 80% of staff had completed vaccination when the vaccination exercise ended at the end of March 2021. With the loosening of the contraindications to vaccination over time, staff vaccination rates reached 89.3% in early July and nearly 99.9% by the end of the year. No major or serious vaccine-related medication or administration errors were reported. No staff had anaphylaxis. Conclusions: By using the ‘3Cs’ model to plan out the vaccination exercise, it is possible to achieve a high vaccination rate coupled with effective and customized communications. This multi-disciplinary team approach can be adapted to guide vaccination efforts in various settings in future pandemics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health and Well-Being of Health Care Workers and Students in the Time of COVID-19)

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