COVID Stressed, but Not due to the Virus
Julie Y Valenzuela1, R Jonathan Robitsek1, Melissa K James1
1Department of Surgery, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, Jamaica, New York.
The Journal of Surgical Research
|November 27, 2022
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic did not directly increase posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in acute care surgeons due to illness fears. Instead, practice changes and administrative burdens significantly contributed to PTSD symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Mental Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Acute care surgeons face cumulative stress, increasing susceptibility to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique stressors for healthcare professionals, particularly those in high-stress surgical fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on PTSD symptomology in acute care surgeons.
- To identify specific factors contributing to PTSD in this population during the pandemic.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the PTSD Checklist-Civilian Version (PCL-6) to screen surgeons.
- Administered additional questions on pandemic-related professional and systemic factors.
- Employed regression modeling on data from 334 attending surgeons.
Main Results:
- 17% of surgeons screened positive for PTSD symptoms.
- Factors associated with higher PTSD scores included younger age, increased administrative duties, reduced research, nonurban practice, and loss of bonuses.
- Elective case cancellations and perceived illness risk also correlated with PTSD symptoms.
Conclusions:
- PTSD prevalence in surgeons during the pandemic was consistent with prior studies.
- Pandemic-related stress stemmed from operational disruptions and demographic factors, not direct infectious concerns.
- Addressing these systemic challenges is crucial for surgeon well-being and workforce sustainability.
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