The Influence of COVID-19 Pandemic on the Mental Health of Pharmacists As Frontline Health Care Providers in Nepal

Overview

Journal Heliyon

Specialty Social Sciences

Date 2024 Apr 11

PMID 38601518

Authors

Subesha Adhikari

Sarina Pradhan Kasaju

Uma Langkulsen

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Due to COVID-19, pharmacists have been exposed to a variety of dangers that have an impact on their mental health. The study highlights that impact of COVID-19 and work led to burnout among them. Thus, it is necessary to offer mental health services.

Aims: To assess the impact of COVID-19 on the work of pharmacy professionals and ascertain the extent of the influence of burnout on mental health among pharmacists working as frontline health providers in Nepal.

Methods: Pharmacists from Province 2, 3, and 5 in Nepal participated in a self-administered questionnaire that assessed mental health and wellbeing and burnout using 16-item OLBI. Data was collected from January 2023-March 2023. Independent sample -test, one-way ANOVA, Pearson's correlation, and linear regression were employed to identify any significant connections between burnout and mental health and wellbeing.

Results: Out of 243 participants COVID-19 pandemic and work was found to have a negative impact on the mental health and wellbeing of a 33.7% of pharmacists. Participants reported having financial issues in 41.6% of cases and 9.5% considered leaving the profession and were concerned about the provision of service quality and making mistakes at work. A strong and meaningful positive relationship and linear regression were observed between exhaustion, disengagement, burnout, mental health and wellbeing. Pharmacists working part-time (p < 0.050) in hospital settings experienced burnout as a result of insufficient training, extended working hours, and stress both on and off the job.

Conclusions: Pharmacists are to prioritize a healthy work-life balance, which includes avoiding prolonged shifts >8 h, regular physical exercise and promote open communication among colleagues to address workplace concerns.

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