The impact of COVID19 on sleep quality among healthcare workers

Introduction Since the start of the pandemic, healthcare workers (HCWs) have faced a range of infectious and psychosocial risks. Contracting SARS-CoV-2 has impacted their physical, mental, and emotional well-being, with sleep also likely being affected. Objectives Our study aims to assess the impact of SARS-CoV2 infection on sleep quality in HCWs. Methods We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among staff at Sfax University Hospital who were infected with SARS-CoV-2 between October 2020 and June 2021, during post-COVID follow-up consultations. A questionnaire was utilized, with the medical section completed by a physician to assess sociodemographic, professional, and clinical characteristics of the infection. A self-administered section evaluated the impact of the infection on sleep quality using the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Results Our study included 200 healthcare workers with an average age of 42.97 years. Nurses comprised 53.5% of the sample, and 41% of the participants were involved in the care of patients with SARS-CoV-2. Workplace infections accounted for 39% of the cases. At the post-COVID follow-up consultation, 83% reported persistent symptoms. According to the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), 47.5% had no sleep disturbances, 3.5% had mild insomnia, 26% had moderate insomnia, and 8% had severe insomnia. Additionally, 38% of the staff were dissatisfied with their sleep quality following their SARS-CoV-2 infection. Conclusions SARS-CoV-2 infection impacts the sleep of healthcare workers, highlighting the need for strategies to improve sleep quality. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining staff well-being and ensuring the quality of care provided. Disclosure of Interest None Declared