Prevalence investigation and Comparison of Anxiety of Pre-Hospital Emergency and Hospital Emergency Personnel in Birjand in Covid-19 Epidemic

Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that may cause respiratory infections. Recently, a new coronavirus epidemic (COVID-19) has caused great anxiety worldwide. Given that pre-hospital and hospital emergency staffs are the first group of frontliners to be exposed to and fight COVID-19 infection, this study aimed to investigate the anxiety of pre-hospital and hospital emergency staff in Birjand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 270 pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel were included in the census method in 2021. Data collection tools included a demographics form and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CDAS). Data analysis was performed in SPSS software version 21 using descriptive and inferential statistical tests.

The mean score of psychological symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (20.65%) was higher than hospital emergency personnel (17.78%). Also, the mean score of physical symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (16.09%) was greater than that of hospital emergency personnel (17.73). There was a significant difference between pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel regarding the mean anxiety score (P <0.001).

Considering these results and the associated morbidity rate in healthcare providers caused by their presence in the first line of treatment against the COVID-19 infection, health policymakers are suggested to take the necessary steps to reduce the anxiety of the medical staff.