Comparison of the mental status of COVID-19 intensive care unit and general intensive care unit staff

Aim: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may predispose front-line intensive care staff to experience mental health problems. The aim of this study was to compare the COVID-19 fear experienced by COVID-19 intensive care unit staff and general intensive care unit staff, and the effects of this fear on mental health. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 156 participants, 90 (57.7%) participants from the COVID-19 intensive care unit and 66 (42.3%) from the general intensive care unit, were included. A printed questionnaire consisting of the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21), and demographic data were used. Results: Female gender, being a nurse, and working in COVID-19 intensive care unit, were associated with higher depression, anxiety, and stress scores. A significant relationship was found between fear of COVID-19 and depression (ρ=0.399, p=0.044), anxiety (ρ=0.456, p=0.019), and stress (ρ=0.418, p=0.033). Furthermore, as compared to general intensive care unit staff, COVID-19 intensive care unit staff who may have high-risk contact were approximately twice times more likely to experience anxiety and fear of COVID-19 and 3.5 times more likely to suffer from depression and stress. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected the mental health of intensive care staff. Attention should be paid to the mental health of females and nurses working in the COVID-19 intensive care unit. The mental health of intensive care workers should be supported to protect the health workforce.