Psychosocial impact on pandemic workers in Shanghai during Omicron wave lockdown Omicron Pandemic Coronavirus Disease COVID Shanghai medrxivpreprint sjtu1896 nyushanghai UofT
Study: On the frontlines in Shanghai: Stress, burnout and perceived benefit among COVID-19 testers and other personnel during the Omicron wave lockdown. Image Credit: Graeme Kennedy / Shutterstock
Studies have barely investigated the perspectives and well-being of these workers after China implemented such strict COVID-19 control measures. This 15‐item questionnaire had five-, four-, and six items on emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy, respectively. The participating respondents rated their experience on a 7‐point scale ranging from zero to six, indicating never to every day. The higher scores in exhaustion and cynicism indicated a higher burnout among these people based on the Maslach Burnout Inventory.
Intriguingly, many workers also perceived benefits. While 65.5% thought they fostered more cohesive relationships, 78.1% felt more resilient, and 84.2% were honored to serve. Around 68% of participants also perceived their families as fully supportive. Nevertheless, most wanted counseling and stress relief. Although 430 of 887 workers reported no time for engaging in such activities, two-thirds desired to have a few days off to rest.