A cross-sectional study on coping strategies of frontline healthcare workers amid the COVID-19 pandemic in a developing country

Abstract

Objectives: Frontline healthcare workers encountered a heightened susceptibility to negative psychological symptoms and behavioral shifts in light of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. This study determined the coping strategies adopted by frontline healthcare workers in Ghana as well as assessed any differences based on demographics, job title, and ranking in four coronavirus disease 2019-designated centers in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Methods: Using a hospital-based, mixed-method approach, the study was conducted between May 2021 and September 2021. A total of 94 frontline healthcare workers were randomly sampled and given a self-administered questionnaire, while 13 healthcare workers took in-depth interviews. Data from the survey were analyzed using both IBM SPSS and IBM AMOS and the interview data were transcribed verbatim and coded using thematic analysis. Results: The study revealed that coronavirus disease 2019 has affected the psycho-social life of frontline healthcare workers mainly in the form of depression, anxiety, and stress. The three main coping strategies adopted by frontline healthcare workers include personal preventative measures (most dominant), seeking external expert support, and obtaining institutional support. While healthcare workers within the age group 30–39 years were found most compliant with the adoption of personal preventive measures and those below 30 years were found least compliant. Conclusion: This study concludes that frontline healthcare workers have been affected by a considerable level of anxiety, stress, and depression during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The study recommends a robust psychological support system at various levels of health care and an Employee Assistance Program with access to a 24-h hotline counseling service for frontline healthcare workers, continuous personal protective equipment provision, regular evidence-based updates on the management of coronavirus disease 2019 patients, and increased commitment from the government in addressing the medical needs of infected frontline healthcare workers.