Prevalence investigation and Comparison of Anxiety of Pre-Hospital Emergency and Hospital Emergency Personnel in Birjand in Covid-19 Epidemic

Introduction: Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that may cause respiratory infections. Recently, a new coronavirus epidemic (COVID-19) has caused great anxiety worldwide. Given that pre-hospital and hospital emergency staffs are the first group of frontliners to be exposed to and fight COVID-19 infection, this study aimed to investigate the anxiety of pre-hospital and hospital emergency staff in Birjand during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 270 pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel were included in the census method in 2021. Data collection tools included a demographics form and the Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CDAS). Data analysis was performed in SPSS software version 21 using descriptive and inferential statistical tests. Results: The mean score of psychological symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (20.65%) was higher than hospital emergency personnel (17.78%). Also, the mean score of physical symptoms of pre-hospital emergency personnel (16.09%) was greater than that of hospital emergency personnel (17.73). There was a significant difference between pre-hospital and hospital emergency personnel regarding the mean anxiety score (P <0.001). Conclusion: Considering these results and the associated morbidity rate in healthcare providers caused by their presence in the first line of treatment against the COVID-19 infection, health policymakers are suggested to take the necessary steps to reduce the anxiety of the medical staff.