Journal of Pediatric Research and Neonatal Care

Pediatric Postgraduate Residents at the University of Carabobo, Venezuela: Navigating Stress Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic in Childcare

Yuraima García Calcurian¹*, Avila Teran Robersi^1,2, Irma Agüero^1,2

¹Coordination of Teaching, Research and Extension, Autonomous Teaching Service of the Central Hospital of Maracay -Venezuela
²University of Carabobo, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aragua Branch, Venezuela

Abstract

Introduction: Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals, particularly those in pediatric and childcare services, confront significant psychological challenges in adapting to a new normal. The constant risk of virus exposure and the potential to transmit it to others give rise to diverse psychological responses, often manifesting as stress or anxiety.

Objective: This study aims to assess stress levels related to anxiety disorders by applying DSM-IV diagnostic criteria to Pediatric and Childcare Postgraduate Residents.

Materials and Methods: A quantitative, cross-sectional evaluative study was conducted, involving 56 postgraduate residents in childcare and pediatrics. Data were collected through a multiple-choice questionnaire aligned with DSM-IV criteria.

Results: Findings indicate that 66.07% of participants exhibited symptoms of moderate stress or phobic disorders. Notably, first-year residents displayed the highest prevalence, with an incidence rate of 68.97% in this category.

Conclusions: As per DSM-IV criteria, resident physicians demonstrate symptoms indicative of moderate stress.

Keywords:

Stress; Anxiety; Phobia; Obsessive-compulsive disorder; Pandemic; Covid-19