Work

Exploring Secondary Traumatic Stress as a Post-Pandemic Challenge for Healthcare Workers Practicing in Saudi Arabia

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: In this study, we aim to determine post-pandemic level of secondary traumatic stress and the associated factors among healthcare workers practicing in the Western province of Saudi Arabia. Methods: Healthcare workers practicing at public health sector of the Western province of Saudi Arabia. Received Web-based Self-administered questionnaire, assessing post-pandemic Secondary Traumatic Stress (STS), using Secondary Traumatic Stress Scale (STSS). Results: A total of 380 responses received. Logistic regression analysis identified significant predictors of secondary traumatic stress (STS). Females had a significantly higher likelihood of experiencing STS (OR=2.425, p < 0.001). Doctors were significantly more likely to experience STS compared to other specialties (OR=2.863, p =0.016). Participants sleeping 7 hours were associated with a lower likelihood of STS (OR=0.427, p =0.016), while sleeping 6 hours showed a trend towards lower STS but was not statistically significant ( p =0.068). Participants aged 50 and above were significantly less likely to experience STS (OR=0.275, p =0.021). Lastly, Saudi nationals were significantly more likely to experience STS compared to non-Saudis (OR=2.717, p =0.014). Conclusion: Female healthcare workers, doctors, and those younger than 50 years old were all found to be at a significantly higher risk of STS. Interestingly, sleep duration emerged as a potential protective factor, with those sleeping 7 hours exhibiting a lower risk of STS. Finally, the analysis revealed a higher prevalence of STS among Saudi nationals compared to non-Saudis. Keywords: secondary traumatic stress, post-pandemic, healthcare workers, Saudi Arabia, public sector

Source: Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare

DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s486643

Authors: Heba Ashi, Marwah Afeef, Faris Almutairi, Razin Subahi, Emad Aljohani, Zuhair Natto

Institutions: King Abdulaziz University, Al-Thagher General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,836