Frequency of anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and burnout in health personnel in hospitals in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this research is to establish and evaluate the frequency of anxiety, burnout and post-traumatic stress disorder in health personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic according to the degree of exposure in three public healthcare facilities with different levels of complexity in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Methods: Multicenter, prospective, analytical study. The sample was taken through a three-step voluntary and anonymous online form with three inventories: Gad 7, Maslach Inventory and Davidson Trauma Scale and a self-perceived risk questionnaire. Results: In a total sample of n=1391, a higher prevalence of anxiety symptoms (mild: M=41%; moderate to severe: M=27%) and
sleep difficulties (M=73%) was found, while levels of post-traumatic stress (M=36%) and burnout remained lower (M=19%). While the chi-square tests indicated associations between job positions with higher exposure and the presence of symptoms, the logistic regression models indicated that the professionals in training and those who reported higher levels of self-perceived risk showed a greater presence of psychological symptoms. Discussion: The self-perception of risk is an important factor when considering the presence of symptoms, regardless of the actual degree of exposure. Conclusions: Measures to promote mental well-being in healthcare workers must be implemented immediately and sustained over time, especially in young people, females and frontline workers.