Assessing post-traumatic stress disorder among healthcare workers in COVID-19 hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic, a worldwide health emergency has had extensive effects not just on the economy but also on mental well-being specifically among healthcare professionals. This study focuses on examining the extent and symptoms of post-traumatic stress as well as the causes associated with it, the techniques employed to respond and the effectiveness of coping mechanisms among healthcare professionals who are providing care to COVID-19 patients in certain hospitals located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This research used a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques. This included documentary analysis, surveys, mathematical and statistical analysis and in-depth interviews. The sample consisted of 638 healthcare workers aged between 21 and 63 working at Cho Ray Hospital and the COVID-19 Resuscitation Unit. The results suggest that a majority of healthcare professionals display indications of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) ranging from occasional mild episodes occurring once a month to more severe occurrences exceeding 17 times per month. The research findings indicate that coping techniques show high individualization. While certain healthcare professionals may exhibit "normal" levels of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), effectively managing stress through rest, relaxation and personal time, others with varying degrees of PTSD necessitate professional therapeutic assistance to mitigate the risk of self-harm. This study highlights the pressing necessity for the provision of focused mental health assistance to healthcare personnel in light of the current epidemic.