Psychological Changes in Doctors Working in Pediatrics, Gynaecology, Medicine and Surgery during Corona Pandemic (Covid-19)

Aim: To detect the psychological changes in doctors working in pediatrics, gynaecology, medicine and surgery during corona pandemic (COVID-19) Study design;cross sectional study Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted from January 2020 to April 2020 in Gujrat Methods: Total 240 doctors working in pediatrics, gynaecology, medicine or surgery were selected for study who had worked in the environment and area of the corona patients or area of suspected corona patients or in any outpatient area where an unknown but suspected corona patient can land All doctors who left working during corona virus pandemic were excluded from the study Doctors included in the study were asked specific questions to assess the changes in mental health and behavior due to corona virus infection (COVID-19) in the world Later on accompanying individuals like family members or colleagues of that doctor were also inquired about the change in behavior of that doctor before and after the eruption of the corona virus infection Results: Total 240 doctors working in pediatrics, gynaecology, medicine or surgery were included from January 2020 to April 2020 Out of 240 doctors, 98(40 8%) were female doctors whereas 142(59 2%) were male doctors (TABLE I) Many risk factors causing changes in mental health and behavior in doctors were detected including duty in hospital during corona crises, Social distance, Personnel protective equipment (PPE) use, fear of transmission of corona infection to their family members, both electronic & social media and discussion in community One doctor might be affected by multiple risk factors as well Many unwanted changes in mental health and behavior in doctors were observed including changes in sleep, changes in appetite, anger, difficulty in concentrating, fatigue and low energy, physical complaints like stomachaches etc not responding to normal treatment, feeling of hopelessness and increased sensitivity (TABLE III) Conclusions: Many unwanted changes were noted in the mental health and behavior of the doctors working on front line for corona pandemic (COVID-19) These unwanted changes can be prevented by controlling the avoidable risk factors Self safety is necessary at each and every level especially in danger zones After taking proper safety measures, doctors can perform all types of duties for our beloved country Pakistan and humanity Timely intervention, provision of necessary equipment, counseling and motivation of the doctors can prevent the unwanted changes in the mental health and behavior of doctors © 2020 Lahore Medical And Dental College All rights reserved