Experiences and well-being of healthcare professionals working in the field of ultrasound in obstetrics and gynaecology as the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic were evolving: a cross-sectional survey study. Issue 2 (4th February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bourne, Tom; Kyriacou, Christopher; Shah, Harsha; Ceusters, Jolien; Preisler, Jessica; Metzger, Ulrike; Landolfo, Chiara; Lees, Christoph; Timmerman, Dirk
• Is Part Of: BMJ open. Volume 12:Issue 2(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-02-04
• Subjects: ultrasound -- ultrasonography -- gynaecology -- ultrasonography -- public health; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; 610.72
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-051700
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2044-6055

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: Assess experience of healthcare professionals (HCPs) working with ultrasound in obstetrics and gynaecology during the evolving SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, given the new and unprecedented challenges involving viral exposure, personal protective equipment (PPE) and well-being. Design: Prospective cross-sectional survey study. Setting: Online international survey. Single-best, open box and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questions. Participants: The survey was sent to 35 509 HCPs in 124 countries and was open from 7 to 21 May 2020. 2237/3237 (69.1%) HCPs from 115 countries who consented to participate completed the survey. 1058 (47.3%) completed the HADS. Primary outcome measures: Overall prevalence of SARS-CoV-2, depression and anxiety among HCPs in relation to country and PPE availability. Analyses: Univariate analyses were used to investigate associations without generating erroneous causal conclusions. Results: Confirmed/suspected SARS-CoV-2 prevalence was 13.0%. PPE provision concerns were raised by 74.1% of participants; highest among trainees/resident physicians (83.9%) and among HCPs in Spain (89.7%). Most participants worked in self-perceived high-risk areas with SARS-CoV-2 (67.5%–87.0%), with proportionately more trainees interacting with suspected/confirmed infected patients (57.1% vs 24.2%–40.6%) and sonographers seeing more patients who did not wear a mask (33.3% vs 13.9%–7.9%). The most frequent PPE combination used was gloves and a surgical mask (22.3%). UK and US respondents reported spending less time self-isolating (8.8 days) and lower satisfaction with their national pandemic response (37.0%–43.0%). 19.8% and 8.8% of respondents met the criteria for moderate to severe anxiety and depression, respectively. Conclusions: Reported prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 in HCPs is consistent with literature findings. Most respondents used gloves and a surgical mask, with a greater SARS-CoV-2 prevalence compared with those using 'full' PPE. HCPs with the least agency (trainees and sonographers) were not only more likely to see high-risk patients but also less likely to be protected. A fifth of respondents reported moderate to severe anxiety.