Determination of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Levels of Paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians in the Covid-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to determine the depression, anxiety and stress levels of paramedics and emergency medical technicians (ATT) working in 112 emergency stations and emergency services during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
 Materials and Methods: Data were collected online via Google forms, using the data collection form consisting of 20 questions related to demographic characteristics and the COVID-19 process, and the DASS-21 Scale. The data were evaluated in the SPSS 21 program.
 Results: This study included 232 individuals. 52.6% of the participants are male, 67.7% are paramedics, 77.6% are working in 112 stations. When the scale scores were evaluated, 34.9% of the participants had a very advanced level of depression; anxiety levels were very advanced in 30.2% of them; It was determined that the stress level of 21.1% was very advanced.
 Conclusion: As a result of this study, it is seen that the depression, anxiety and stress levels of paramedics and ATTs are high. Although it is thought that this situation may have arisen due to the negative working conditions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, further studies are needed.