Exploring the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder among health-care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: findings from a survey applied on a Portuguese general hospital

Abstract

Purpose Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with risk of suicide and chronic psychological impairment. The continued exposure to stress suffered by health-care workers (HCWs) during the COVID-19 pandemic can be considered a mass traumatic event and contribute to higher rates of PTSD in this population. The purpose of this research is to find out the prevalence and factors associated with PTSD among HCW in a general hospital. Design/methodology/approach The authors devised a survey to assess the prevalence of PTSD among HCWs in a general hospital and its relationship with sex, social support, profession, work experience in health care, time spent caring for COVID-19 patients and place in which the COVID-19-related activities were carried out. PTSD symptoms were assessed using the PCL-5, Portuguese version. Findings A total of 226 HCWs were included in the study. Provisional diagnosis of PTSD was made based on the PCL-5 responses, considering DSM-5 criteria and the cutoff score of 33. In total, 79 (35.0%) HCWs had a provisional diagnosis of PTSD, and a significant association was found between PTSD and time spent working with COVID-19 patients and between PTSD and place of work, namely, the COVID-19 emergency room and intensive care unit. Originality/value The results highlight the need for a reflection on the importance of mental health promotion among HCWs, specially in adverse conditions such as the current pandemic.